PLANS by National Trust to build a discovery centre in Cofton Park as part of their new 8 Hills proposal has been challenged by the Lickey Hills Society.
The society believe The Billberry Centre on Rose Hill would be more feasible due to it’s location, historical significance in the region and it’s need for re-purposing.
During the consultation with National Trust, The Lickey Hills Society heard about plans to build the new discovery centres, and while a specific location was not disclosed for the Cofton Park centre, the society fear the plans could involve covering valued green space with a building and car park.
The society recognises the financial challenges that would have to be overcome to re-purpose the Bilberry Centre but feel it is an opportunity to secure the future of the important historical asset.
A spokesperson for the society said: “Bilberry would be better placed as it is within the proposed Regional Park and a few metres from the footpaths to Rednal and Bilberry Hills.
“The Bilberry Centre is also very near to the North Worcestershire Path, an important feature of the Regional Park plan which has connectivity as a major aim.
“There is underused car parking space at Cofton Village Hall which could be linked to the Bilberry Centre by a bridge over the Arrow.
“There is also ample additional car parking space in the vicinity of the Old Rose & Crown Hotel which is close to the Centre.
“If the building became a Discovery Centre, it would fall within the legacy envisaged by the Cadbury family, who gifted the centre to the people of Birmingham in 1904.”
The Lickey Hills Society are now urging those in favour of their proposal to contact National Trust to promote the idea as part of their 8 Hills Regional Park consultations.
Email: [email protected] to share your ideas. The closing date for submissions is Monday 4th September.
Visit: https://bromsgrovestandard.co.uk/news/no-plans-for-entry-fees-at-proposed-new-bromsgrove-regional-park-say-trust/ for more information on 8 Hills Regional Park.
