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Bilston Urban Village officially opened

Former derelict industrial land in Bilston has been transformed into a green conservation area.

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A view of the new village

Almost 35 acres of green space has been officially opened after more than £1 million was invested to create the conservation and recreation area.

The Bilston Urban Village location off Nettlefolds Way was opened by Mayor of Wolverhampton, Councillor Claire Darke.

The £1.6 million works have been funded by the European Regional Development Fund, Local Growth Fund, Section 106 private sector money and Wolverhampton Council.

Schoolchildren at the village's opening

Landscaping company idverde have transformed the area, creating a conservation and recreation area connected by paths that link existing and new housing developments.

It offers scenic walking and cycling routes and an area to attract wildlife.

The new urban village in Bilston

It also includes a pond which is designed to take flood water.

Councillor Harman Banger, cabinet member for city economy, said: “The official opening of this space as part of Bilston Urban Village is a major milestone in the delivery of a comprehensive regeneration programme for Bilston.

Flowers in the urban village

“It sits on the doorstep of two schools and will contribute directly to the quality of life of local families, as well as providing a fabulous learning resource.

“The pooling of a number of funding streams has enabled the creation of a true ‘garden city’ in this part of the Black Country.”

The new village has opened in Bilston

The land will be known as Nettlefolds Park and is set to be leased to the Land Trust, securing its green status for at least the next 125 years.