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For centuries, the Black Country has been known for its mining industry, which has given the region a reputation for being rich in minerals. The blackened and scarred landscape, which was created by the large amounts of smoke and smog from the industries that filled the air, earned it...

Birmingham's skyline is rapidly changing, and sustainability is a key criterion for new projects. Using a framework of environmental checks and balances, city planners and council members are ensuring that architectural ambitions align with a minimal long-term planetary impact. Indeed, these "green" buildings could be crucial in helping Birmingham...

Sustainable or green tourism is more than just a buzzword. It's a commitment to preserving the natural, cultural, and economic environments of tourist destinations for future generations. As the tourism industry grows, it's crucial to adopt practices that minimize environmental impact, support local communities, and protect cultural heritage. Read...

The Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park, formerly the Birmingham Nature Centre and even earlier, the Birmingham Zoo, began its journey as a small menagerie often called "a little gem among zoos." It was opened on May 1, 1964, by the Dudley Zoological Society in Cannon Hill Park. Interestingly, the park's...

Kings Heath Park, spanning 35 acres, holds the distinction of being the first municipal park in Birmingham to receive a Green Flag Award, signifying its exceptional maintenance and environmental standards. The park gained widespread recognition for its television garden, initially launched in 1972 as a collaboration between Birmingham City...

The Edgbaston Reservoir, covering 70 acres, is both a local nature reserve and a protected conservation site, featuring predominantly open water. Built by Thomas Telford in 1827 to supply Birmingham’s canal network, the reservoir remains in active use today. However, beyond its original function, it has evolved into a...

Spanning 40 acres, Fox Hollies Park was owned by the Hollies family until 1649, after which it passed to the Fox family until 1869. In 1929, the Birmingham City Council purchased the land along with the former country estate to transform it into a public park. The Westley Brook flows...

Covering 40 acres, Highbury Park may often be overshadowed by Cannon Hill Park, but it is twice the size and offers a wider range of natural features. It attracts both tourists and locals seeking a more traditional and tranquil retreat. Often described as the quieter, more understated sibling of Cannon...

With the rise of industrialisation in the 19th century, cities across the UK began developing parks as part of the "Garden City" concept. This movement aimed to prevent industrial expansion from overtaking all urban green spaces. By the 20th century, rapid urbanisation further reduced natural landscapes, covering much of...

Lickey Hills Country Park is a picturesque countryside park located primarily on hilly terrain near Birmingham. Covering over 200 hectares, some of its hills reach nearly 300 metres in height. The park is managed by Birmingham City Council and provides a thriving habitat for hundreds of species of flora...