The Croydon Canal
The canal through Betts Park was considerably more attractive
before the improved concrete trough was built!
The concrete trough at Betts Park
Moving on from the previous section, we are on the other side of
these flats adjacent to Betts Park which stand on the actual course
of the canal. There was a bridge here but it was likely of brick or
stone bridge, hence the suggestion that railings along the side of
the road come from the canal bridge are doubtful. Right: Looking
from the opposite side of the road, the railings can be seen. It is
obvious they are of later origin, and may even date back to only
1934 when the local council made "improvements" to the canal's
route in Betts Park. Behind the tree in the centre of the picture
can be seen the information tablet referring to this section as the
only bit of canal left. There's Dacres Wood, and another section in
Norwood!! If one compares old pictures pre 1934 (right below) its
apparent the 1934 improvements were destructive.
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- Used by permission of Croydon Local Studies Library - |
One can see the canal has suffered badly in terms of this
development. Perhaps somehow the renewal of virtually the entire
length of the Grand Union Canal's main line to Birmingham in the
1930's with concrete sides prompted the local council to
'modernise' the Croydon Canal in the same sense. If it had still
been open today, this is at least how it would look - complete with
the modern amenity that is a slipway!
On the far side of Betts Park, the course of the canal is still
extant and one can walk in the canal bed. At one time this section
was watered and provided an attractive feature for houses in
Seymour Terrace. Like other stretches, it was dewatered and became
part of Betts Park.
This view looks from flats on the side of Seymour Villas - at
the far end of Betts Park. Behind is the railway and South Norwood
reservoir. Unfortunately absolutely no trace remains of the canal
beyond here until
Norwood
