To quote from “Ferguslei to Hawthorne” by Carole Hendry, …”Chingford Park conjures up a memory of dignity and gracious living.” I recommend her booklet for further reading.
The original residence was built by a Dr Andrew Buchannan in 1862, and in 1872 it was bought by Mr P C Neill, who set about altering and extending it to accommodate his very large family of five sons and four daughters., a complete new portion being added to the front of the house. Chingford was bequethed to the city of Dunedin in 1936 by the then owner Mr. P.C. Neill. It was allowed to fall into disrepair and was demolished in 1968.
The City Council decided to keep the main features of the property, but to provide football and cricket grounds, this was in the area which had been a market garden. Some trees were removed to develop a childrens play area, but compensated for the loss by planting others on the hillside.
A combination of the passage of time and planning have given the city this haven of rich birdsong and tranquility that we have today.
Sporting amenities that persist today are a children's playground, an archery course, a permanent orienteering course, soccer and cricket fields and there are plans for a Frisbee golf course to be established. The Leith Harrier club has their clubrooms in the grounds on the north side of the driveway. There is also a community orchard being established, with some fruit trees already having been planted.
The very beautiful and historic bluestone stables are used as a wedding venue.
