Improvements to Sheepwash Nature Reserve in Tipton mean visitors of all ages can enjoy and use more of the 'hidden treasures' it has to offer. Sandwell Council and volunteers in the reserve's friends' group are working together on a range of projects.
The new pathway from Tame Road into the reserve links with pathways towards Dudley Port train station.
The council has also opened up old tunnels from the Oldbury end of the reserve and thinned out trees to let more light into the park and show off the lakes and wildlife.
This summer, a 3km charity fun run is planned as well as events with schools to make more people aware of the conservation work.
People can also join Sandwell Stride's popular walk around Sheepwash every Friday at 10am. Meet at Great Bridge Library, Sheepwash Lane, Great Bridge, Tipton.
Councillor Richard Marshall, Sandwell Council's cabinet member for leisure, said: "Sheepwash is a fantastic nature reserve that we want the local community to use and get more involved in.
"I want to thank everyone who's been helping to improve Sheepwash, including volunteers in the friends' group.
"On a recent walk around the reserve, I was struck by how extensive it is. It's full of wildlife and great scenery that is free for people of all ages to enjoy.
"A recent fire at the reserve was a bit of a setback, when some of the rubber pellets we're using for the paths were set on fire, but I am pleased to see improvements continuing and hope more and more people will discover this 'hidden treasure' over the coming months."
Friends' group member, Christine Adams,said: "I've been a member of the Friends' Group for 15 years and have walked the area every day for the last 26 years as well as visiting the area when I was a child.
"It's a very special place, safe to walk a dog and a haven for wildlife.
"We're extremely pleased with the the new pathway, it's amazing and beautiful to walk on and we'd love more people to come and enjoy the reserve."
Christine added that the Friends' group was looking to recruit more volunteers to help maintain and look after the reserve as well as looking to attract more funding for future projects.
