Cottons Park, a cherished green expanse nestled on the outskirts of Romford town centre, carries a profound history that extends far beyond its tranquil appearance. Once a vital hub during the Second World War, this urban oasis was transformed into a landscape of resilience and tragedy, a testament to the community’s unwavering spirit amidst global conflict.

Originally recognized as Cottons Recreational Ground, the park’s origins are deeply intertwined with the historic Cottons Estate. This esteemed estate even had the distinction of hosting Queen Elizabeth I during the 16th century, embedding the land with centuries of significant historical lineage before its transformation into a public recreational space.

The acquisition of Cottons Park by the council was not without its complexities. Havering Libraries suggests the purchase was facilitated through a compulsory purchase order, necessitated by the Cottons family’s persistent refusal to relinquish the land, despite extensive negotiations that spanned numerous years with their legal representatives.

During the tumultuous years of the Second World War, Cottons Park adopted a critical new identity. It became a crucial refuge for local residents, providing essential space for the construction of public air raid shelters. These vital structures offered protection and a semblance of security against the constant threat of aerial bombardment plaguing the home front.

However, the park’s wartime narrative is tragically underscored by a devastating incident. One of the public air raid shelters, lacking crucial blast walls at its entrance, suffered a direct impact. This calamitous event led to the loss of six lives among the nine individuals sheltering within, a heartbreaking toll that included four children under the tender age of ten, marking a somber chapter in the park’s enduring legacy.

Beyond its function as a refuge, other sections of Cottons Park also served a vital role in national self-sufficiency efforts. The expansive ground stretching from Recreation Avenue to the former tennis courts was meticulously converted into allotments, where residents actively participated in the “Dig for Victory” campaign, cultivating food to support the war effort and bolster national morale.

In the post-war era, Cottons Park continued to be a focal point for community life and celebration. From 1947, it proudly hosted the “Three Town Show,” a vibrant exhibition orchestrated by the councils of Romford, Dagenham, and Hornchurch, showcasing everything from honey exhibits and intricate handicrafts to elaborate model railways, further cementing its role as a beloved public space.

According to historical records from Havering Libraries, the park maintained its widespread appeal throughout the latter half of the 20th century and into the 21st, captivating visitors with its meticulously maintained flower beds, a charming bandstand, and inviting park benches. Its continued popularity underscored its importance as a local amenity.

The enduring appeal and community value of Cottons Park were further solidified by the formation of the Friends of Cottons Park in 2002. This dedicated group successfully secured vital funding, leading to significant enhancements within the park, including the installation of new fencing, modern play equipment for children, and a versatile multi-use games area, ensuring its continued relevance for future generations as a site of historical reflection and contemporary recreation.