 In 1860, this section of the Forbury was purchased by the town for £6010 from Colonel Blagrave.It was decided that fairs should no longer be held there, but the emphasis remained on recreational use rather than botanical display, with the area grassed except for the outside walks and a gravelled parade ground.The common ownership notwithstanding, the two halves of the Forbury remained very different in character, and separated by a wall.