In 1936 Aldridge UDC purchased 68 acres of land that was going to be utilised for the Pheasey estate development, which they intended to keep as open space.
Hidden away in the Gorse Farm area is the Gorse Farm Wood, fifteen acres of local nature reserve.
Gorse Farm Wood is situated in a suburban part of Great Barr and is one of nine Local Nature Reserves in the borough of Sandwell. It is 15 acres (6.2 Hectares) and has a range of natural habitats including both dry and wet woodland, heathland, willow car, grassland, pools and streams. The site was previously used for farming, marl and peat extraction. It was declared a Local Nature Reserve in 1995.
The reserve is open every day of the year for walking and enjoyment of the wildlife and natural habitats. Guided walks and conservation activities take place throughout the year which are open to all. Details of activities or about becoming a member of "Friends of Gorse Farm Wood" can be obtained from Sandwell Park Farm, Sandwell MBC, 0121 553 0220.
Important wildlife on the site includes a variety of woodland birds, insects and plants such as bluebells and wood horsetail.
Information provided by Sandwell Borough Council
Grid Reference: SP 164 883
Holly Wood Local Nature Reserve (LNR) is situated in Great Barr and is one of a number of LNR's in the Sandwell area. Although only 15 acres in size, it has a range of natural habitats including both woodland, wetlands and streams. The site was previously used as an area of relaxation for recovering patients in the nearby St Margrets Hospital. The site is looked after by Sandwell MBC and BTCV who carry out regular conservation activities.
Sandwell MBC Link Holly Wood nature reserve
In October 1911, the major part of the Scott estates was advertised for sale by auction. The West Bromwich Poor Law Guardians were successful in buying the principal lot of 557 acres, comprising Great Barr Hall and Park (including Merrions Wood, all six lodges and Park Farm) for the total sum of £28,000
Efforts were made in early years to sell off the Merrion's Wood portion of the Park, but no buyer was forthcoming. In the late 1940s, stewardship of the wood and associated land was placed in the hands of trustees to be administered as a public amenity.
Merrions Wood is managed by Walsall MBC and links two lodges of Great Barr Hall on the Walsall Road and Chapel Lane.
Welcome to Nature in Great Barr
While B43 may seem to be an extension of the sprawling conurbation there is plenty of green space.
The south side of the area borders the Sandwell Valley with the RSPB nature centre with its lakes and walks. The site includes a Visitors Centre, a small car park, a network of footpaths and a number of viewing screens
The area to the north borders the Barr Beacon area with the large Great Barr Park being part of the private Great Barr Hall estate.
On the edge of Walsall and just inside the B43 area is Merrions Wood.
Hidden away in the Hamstead area is the Gorse Farm Wood. Fifteen acres of local nature reserve.
On the other side of the Newton Road is another green space provided by Red House Park - see the main links for more information.