A new road, Victoria Embankment, was built alongside the river, towards the north end from
the town centre. Prior to this, the park had been fairly remote from any built-up area. This
road was later to become the main approach road to the park, although at this time there was
still no access on the north side xxix. Initially trees were planted on both sides of the street, but
those on the east side were later removed xxx.

Before constructing the new road Victoria Embankment, the river course along this section
was straightened. Material dug up during the construction of a lake in the adjacent Little
Polam estate is believed to have been used for the re-landscaping of this area. This estate
was to be later incorporated into the park