Salford Park is probably one of the more hidden parks in all of Brum. The park is off Lichfield Road in Aston on land that hugs the Aston Expressway and Spaghetti Junction. No doubt you've seen it driving on the Motorway or traveling south into town on the cross city line, but I don't know many who have actually taken time to check out the grounds.
The park itself consists of several components. First, there is the Lucozade sponsored football 'stadium' that includes multiple outdoor pitches. The stadium and car park are what you'll notice first approaching from Lichfield Road. Next, a nice tree lined sidewalk extends from the road up to the park proper. The park itself is mainly centred on Aston Reservoir. The reservoir was built back in the 1800's to supply water to the Aston parish before being taken over by Birmingham. Today, it provides a focal point for the park.
In previous decades the reservoir was well known for being well stocked with fish. Sure enough, on my recent visit there were two people fishing off the northern bank of the lake. The reservoir has numerous benches for sitting but not much else in the way of amenities. A path on the north side runs parallel to the River Tame and connects to the Salford bridge and canal system.
The overall impression I got here was one of neglect. Aside from the stadium, the park is in need of some serious TLC. Large collections of rubbish have found their way into the reservoir, pooling together and fouling the eastern and western ends of the lake. The footpath that connects to Aston Hall Road is completely overgrown in the summer, making it totally inaccessible.
Overall, Salford Park affords some interesting views of Spaghetti Junction and not a lot else save for the stadium. However, I must give some accolades here, as in the time of increasing infill and development pressures, Salford Park remains a green gem in an otherwise bleak industrial area. read more