The arrangement of sports facilities immediately east of West Park, Hull as shown on the 1928 O.S. map and preceding the building of the KC Stadium between 2000 and 2002 is confirmed by an aerial photo., both these in Paul Gibson’s ‘The West Park’, pub. 2011, (s.p.b.). Mr. Gibson’s text on p.20 of the booklet also confirms that this was the site of Hull City’s first ground and terraces. I think the move to Boothferry Park must have happened in the late 1940s.
The photo above shows one of three groups of tall trees (two linear, one clump) on the present MKM stadium site, located just east of the stadium itself. Mostly willow and poplar these trees are on the site of what was Hull City’s first formal ground (see above) but must have been planted after the pitch was abandoned. Although tall and apparently mature, trees of these species grow comparatively quickly so an explanation for their siting, which must predate 2000, would require a detailed knowledge of the site in the second half of the 20th century.
As may be seen from the photo these trees compliment the hard surfacing of the site (mostly parking and storage areas), their retention in the site plan being a welcome decision and complimenting the trees and shrubs on the other side of the stadium nearer to the West Park boundary.
to be continued.