A beauty spot in Walsall has had work completed recently to improve access to the site for both visitors and rangers alike, to keep the site looking great and to attract visitors.
Work at the Barr Beacon Nature Reserve has been completed thanks to funding from Ibstock Cory Environmental Trust (ICET) through the Landfill Communities Fund.
WalsallCouncil’s Countryside Services, working in partnership with The Rotary Club of Aldridge and The Barr Beacon Trust who own the beauty spot, identified the need for a defined car parking area that would improve access to the site and safeguard its integrity as one of the region’s premier nature reserves.
Wooden bollards have been installed to protect the boundaries of the car park but still blend in with the natural environment. A new gate has been added replacing an old, tired looking one and will be used by council officers when entering the grassland area. Both the bollards and gate have been supplied by a local company ensuring that the carbon footprint for improving the site remains low.
The route leading across the Memorial side of Barr Beacon has also been resurfaced, at a cost of just under £5000, making it easier for motorists to access the site.
Diana West, senior countryside ranger for Walsall Countryside Services enthused: ”We’re very pleased with the improvements and we anticipate the site’s visitors will be too. Having a designated parking area will help us to preserve the environment of the reserve and guarantees enough space to welcome visitors who travel in by car.”
The recent improvements cost just under £2,000 and are part of a wider £24,000 grant funded project, secured in November 2007, that will also pay for the cleaning of the War Memorial, the replacement of its panoramic disc, a new nature trail leaflet, picnic facilities and important work keeping the natural area looking at its best.
Angela Haymonds, ICET Secretary said: “The Barr Beacon Nature Reserve is a beautiful site with fantastic views across the West Midlands which are enjoyed by many people. I hope the work to date encourages more people to enjoy this beauty spot. “
The work by Walsall Countryside Services to manage the Barr Beacon Nature Reserve continues, creating and managing heathland, grassland and wildflower meadows that can be enjoyed by everyone.
