New Hall Valley

Click on any image for an enlarged view

The New Hall Valley Country Park was officially opened in 2005 and was the first urban country park to be created in England for more than 10years. It marked the culmination of many years of land acquisition by Birmingham City Council. The park now covers an area of nearly 200acres and is surrounded by mixed suburban housing which in no way detracts from its rural aspect or appeal.

Within the park but privately owned are a 17th cent. Water Mill and a moated 13th cent. Manor House, now a hotel.

The area was formerly arable farmland, with wetland grazing meadows bisected by the canalised stream known as Plantsbrook or by its earlier name of Ebrook.

The Valley is an important wildlife and landscape corridor, linking Sutton Park National Nature Reserve in the north through to Plantsbrook Local Nature Reserve in the south. It also connects with Green Belt land and open countryside to the east.

Main paths are surfaced to provide easy access to most of the Park and link into the National Cycle Network. Two play areas are included, as is a wetland Boardwalk, which incorporates many named and dedicated treads.

Wildlife to be seen includes foxes, muntjac deer and many small mammals. Kingfisher, herons and wagtails may be seen on the brook fringes, Birds of prey are represented by kestrel, buzzard and sparrow hawk. Visitors in May and June are treated to one of the West Midlands finest displays of mixed wildflowers in various meadows which can include ragged robin, burnet, yellow rattle and knapweed plus many more.

Constant husbandry, vigilance and enhancement is carried out by an enthusiastic Valley Volunteers group. Together with officers of the City Council all strive to increase the diversity if flora and fauna whilst allowing access to all parts by visitors for everyone's pleasure and quiet enjoyment.

Jeff Gilbert Chair New Hall Valley Steering Group