What if these grounds could talk? Park View Road, home to Welling United, has quite the story to tell.
Park View Road derives its name from its location. It sits beside a section of the A207 road near Danson Park in Welling. This location has seen football played since the 1920s.
Imagine this: a grandstand built in the late 1930s buzzes with excited fans. Then, the Second World War changes everything. German bombers, flying toward London, damage Park View Road in 1940. The grounds lay derelict.
But the story doesn’t end there. A campaign starts to reform Bexleyheath & Welling F.C. Crowds swell, reaching over 2,000. In 1950, the current main stand is erected. The 1960s bring further growth. The main stand expands and covered terracing increases.
Hard times hit in the 1970s. The club, then known as Bexley United, struggles. In April 1976, they play their last game before just 222 spectators.
A new chapter begins in 1977. Welling United, from nearby Eltham, secure a 15-year lease. The grounds are in bad shape. A fire has damaged the main stand. Welling United revitalizes Park View Road.
Later, Erith & Belvedere F.C. become tenants in 1999. This follows a fire that destroys their own main stand at their old stadium also named Park View. They sell their old site in 2001. The funds finance the development of the far side of Park View Road. This becomes their headquarters. Dilapidated terraces are replaced with seats.
Today, Park View Road continues to host football. It’s home to Welling United, a National League South club since 1977. It also hosts Erith & Belvedere F.C. since 1999.
Park View Road has seen highs and lows. It has survived war damage and financial struggles. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of local football. It is more than just a ground. It is a community landmark.