Conclusion

The description of the fields and open spaces of the locality facing Friary road would not be complete without some reference to its future.

It has been owned by the City of Birmingham for very many years up to the present time in 1986 and is a portion of the total in their possession stretching through to the city boundary at Park Lane and along the River Tame towards Hamstead. Alongside this further boundary an eighteen hole fully landscaped golf course has been laid out with a restaurant and club house. Adjacent to it a large sports area has been constructed.

The remainder of its extensive land remains undeveloped. Plans have been drawn up agreeing to the principle of its retention as an open recreational area. These plans propose to make the whole area including Sandwell Valley an immense place of attraction for the inhabitants of the West Midlands.

Included in the attractions would be a lake to be made for water sports by damming Hawthorn Brook in the region around Silvercroft and Grestone Avenues.

On the slopes down to the brook from Hill Top Farm would be an artificial ski slope.

The top of the hill would be laid out as a picnic area and surrounding fields would be made into a large sports area with a stadium. For the pedestrian walks would be constructed with tree planting to enhance the scene. Another smaller golf course would be constructed.

Organised attractions would take over from the present freedom. So far economy has prevented any moves but the future only will see what choice is made for the use of our open space.

◄ Hill Top Farm

Handsworth ►

Pre-school years: 1912 - 1917 School days: 1917 - 1925 St. Andrew's Church, Handsworth
Friary Road 1985 The Fields and the Allotments Hawthorn Brook The Bridleway to West Bromwich Hill Top Farm Lodge Farm Conclusion