Fibbersley Local Nature Reserve
Fibbersley Local Nature Reserve is one of Walsall's finest wetland sites. The site is situated in Willenhall, near the boundary of the boroughs of Walsall and Wolverhampton. The site, which has been industrialised, has been largely reclaimed by nature. A network of footpaths have been installed across the site which lead to wildflower meadows, marshes and ponds. The ponds are particularly prolific and support a large population of amphibians.
Over 200 different plants and more than 20 species of birds have been recorded here. Grey herons, mute swans and lesser whitethroats are regular visitors. Kestrels can also be seen flying above the nature reserve.
History
We are continually facing the loss of countryside to development. However, at Fibbersley Local Nature Reserve the reverse is the case. A hundred years ago, the sites and sounds here would have been those of heavy industry, in particular iron and steel work. Coal mines, foundaries and canals dominated the whole area.
The deep mines here closed at the end of the nineteenth century, to be replaced with clay and sand quarries. From 1872 to 1931 a railway line crossed the site and carried passengers and freight between Walsall and Wolverhampton. This ran east to west, whilst a mineral line ran north to south to carry coal and clay etc. When it opened in 1887, the Bentley canal linked the area with the regional canal netwrok.
Today, at first glance there is little evidence of this industrial activity. However, on site there are disused railway tracks, ponds on the site of capped mineshafts, and flooded quarry pits. Broom now flouises on the coal spoil mounds which divide the wildflower meadows from the marshes.
The site has now become so important for wildlife and the people of the area, that it has been declared a Local Nature Reserve which should ensure its protection for years to come.
How to find Fibbersley Local Nature Reserve
By car
Parking is available off Noose Lane, adjacent to Willenhall Memorial Park.
By bus
17, Walsall to Noose Lane
572, 574 Willenhall to Noose Lane
573 Wolverhampton to Noose Lane
Contact the Cantro Hotline 0121 200 2700 for further information.