From workplace disputes and new technology to community projects, local campaigns and unforgettable moments on the high street, these photographs capture the people, places and stories that shaped the Black Country and Staffordshire in 1990.
It was a year of change and debate, with residents taking to the streets over the Poll Tax, businesses investing for the future, and communities coming together to raise money, celebrate achievements and protect the things that mattered to them.
From Walsall and Wolverhampton to Cannock, Dudley and beyond, this collection offers a fascinating snapshot of everyday life - the familiar faces, local landmarks and events that many will remember.
Take a look through the gallery and see which memories come flooding back. Do you recognise anyone or have your own memories of these places and events? Share them in the comments.
Take a trip back to Brierley Hill in the 1980s and explore our nostalgic gallery here.
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9. The new pool that put Wolverhampton on the map
Wolverhampton’s Central Baths is pictured in October 1990 after the unveiling of a new swimming pool designed for both training and international-level competition. The modern facility reflected the city’s investment in leisure and sport, giving swimmers improved facilities close to home. The photograph captures a time when local swimming was entering a new era. Do you remember visiting Central Baths or learning to swim there? | Express & Star archive
10. The Cannock company embracing cutting-edge technology
David Lindsey (left) and his brother Neil are pictured beside two new linked computer-controlled laser cutting machines at Laser Process Ltd, Cannock, in June 1990. The impressive equipment represented a major investment in modern manufacturing technology, helping the company take advantage of the growing possibilities offered by computer-aided production. The photograph captures a time when local firms were adapting to new technology and changing the way they worked. Do you remember the factories and businesses that helped shape Cannock’s industrial story? | Express & Star archive
11. The early days of The Waterfront at Merry Hill
Viscount Ullswater, Minister of Tourism, is pictured with Don and Roy Richardson at The Waterfront, Merry Hill, in 1990. The development had become a major attraction in the area, bringing new shops, restaurants and leisure facilities as the wider Merry Hill site continued to transform the landscape of Dudley and the surrounding area. The photograph captures a time of change and excitement around one of the Black Country’s biggest developments. Do you remember visiting The Waterfront when it was still new? | Express & Star archive
12. The spring surprise that arrived early at a Staffordshire school
Joanne Clarke, aged six, and Robert Alderson, aged five, are pictured admiring the daffodils in bloom at Little Aston Primary School near Lichfield in March 1990. The flowers had appeared earlier than expected thanks to warm weather, giving pupils the chance to enjoy a colourful display they would normally miss during the Easter holidays. The daffodils had been planted as part of a project encouraging children to care for the environment, capturing a lovely moment of school life in the early 1990s. Do you remember planting flowers or looking after nature projects at your own school? | Express & Star archive