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Photographs of Ruddington Depot
The Bombs to Butterflies project brought to light a number of photographs of the depot site through all the periods of its history. Some were already deposited in museum and archive collections, whilst others were generously lent for copying by interviewees and members of the public.
The photograph are arranged in chronological order with each album covering a different period of the depot's history. Clicking on the title of an individual album will bring up a index page of small 'thumbnail' views, from which individual images can be viewed in a larger format by clicking on a thumbnail.
1930s - 1950s
There are only two photographs at present showing the use of the pre-depot site for informal recreation. There is also a paucity of photographs of depot during its operational years, but it should be remembered that all depot workers were subject to the terms of the Official Secrets Act and to take photographs of the depot clandestinely, particularly during the wartime years, would have resulted in the severest of penalties.
1960s - 1970s
The photographs from the post war period cover the depot's role as a breaking yard for surplus vehicles and equipment and as an auction site for any surplus material which was considered to have saleable value.
Closure & Demolition
Spectacular pictures of the closure of the site and the demolition of its buildings show the great solidity of its construction. It is not difficult to appreciate why coming to watch the demolition machinery in action became a popular spectator sport for may Ruddington residents.
Reclamation
The job of transforming the cleared site into a Country Park and prestige Business Park fell to Nottinghamshire County Council. Frank Kerry, who oversaw the project, has lent many of the photographs which show the reclamation project as it unfolded.
Rushcliffe Country Park
Since its opening in 1991, Rushcliffe Country Park has become a popular recreation spot for dog walkers, nature lovers and cyclists. It now has a play area, skate ramp, various community artworks and a varied programme of events including annual fun runs and kite flying festivals.
interviewees
Contemporary photographs of some of the people who were interview during the course of the Bombs to Butterflies project.
Photographs > Introduction