The Stadium has a very interesting past. Here are some highlights
History
Between 1891-1914.Cannock Stadium Park was divided into three distinct parts. The western half consisted of allotment gardens, which were separated by a Tramway that transported coal from the West Cannock colliery company to Huntington Wharf. This tramway passed through the centre of the festival Stadium before reaching its destination at the terminal near the White Lion, which unfortunately closed in 1938.
On the other hand, the eastern section, specifically the lower areas where football pitches are located today, comprised 13 acres of land that served as a refuse tip
The location where the toddlers’ play area is presently situated was previously a pitch and putt facility. This land was generously bestowed to the community and subsequently acquired by the council in 1950, with the intention of establishing playing fields. The Cannock Chase Urban Council then constructed the ‘Festival Stadium’, which derived its name from the Festival of Britain, and officially opened its doors in 1951. Additionally, the eastern section of the site was transformed into football pitches and other recreational areas.
The Stadium was opened by Reg Harris (Reginald Hargreaves Harris OBE was a British track racing cyclist in the 1940s and 1950s. He won the world amateur sprint title in 1947, two Olympic silver medals in 1948, and the professional title in 1949, 1950, 1951 and 1954). The stadium featured a cycle and running track
The venue played host to numerous Inter-school sports days throughout the 1970s. Additionally, the building was frequently utilised for a variety of events, including weddings.
A synthetic track was added in 1984. The stadium continued to host lots of community events.
The stadium ceased operations in 2008, compelling various groups to seek alternative venues. Subsequently, the site was cleared through bulldozing a few years later to accommodate housing, specifically 350 dwellings.
The planning bid was rejected by the Secretary of State and the land was left abandoned, susceptible to fly-tipping, litter and anti-sociable behaviour.
Plans were agreed in 2014 to re-vamp the park by Cannock Chase Council.
The playground was added in 2016, with Phase 1 and MUGA being added in 2018.
FRIENDS OF CANNOCK STADIUM PARK started in 2018 with our visions to keep the park usable for community use.
Phase 1 was officially opened on 19th September 2018 by Cllr George Adamson
We have since made minor improvements for the community and allotments by gaining funding from corporations. This has included new tables and benches and equipment to accomplish our goals.