Elizabeth Park: new green space in Bolton to be named after late Queen

A new town centre park will be named in honour of Queen Elizabeth II. In a tribute announced the morning after her funeral, Bolton Council has confirmed that a new public green space will be officially known as Elizabeth Park.

The pocket park will sit on the former site of the Odeon cinema on Ashburner Street and will be created with the support of the government’s Town’s Fund.

Planning permission was secured in June and the completed Elizabeth Park will feature seating areas, picnic tables and a performance space.

In a joint statement, Bolton Council leader, Coun Martyn Cox, deputy leader, Coun Hillary Fairclough and opposition leader Coun Nick Peel, said: “Queen Elizabeth II inspired so many throughout her 70-year reign, including several visits to Bolton over the years.

“Victoria Square is named for one our greatest monarchs, so it is only fitting that this new public space is named after the late Queen who meant so much to so many of us in Bolton.

“Elizabeth Park will be a great asset for both local residents and visitors alike for many years to come.”

Plans for Elizabeth Park said the northern half of will have a softer landscape while the southern half of the park will feature more hard paving, centred around an open events space where stages or food trucks could be brought for temporary events such as music or drama performances or food fairs.

The site is currently a derelict area, close to the town’s market hall and the site of the recently approved Moor Lane housing development.

A design and access report in support of the plans, stated: “The proposals for the former Odeon cinema site look to bring green open space into the heart of Bolton; providing a park which is open, accessible, and welcoming for the community and visitors.”