A former petrol station in the Black Country, once a bustling hub for motorists and local customers, now stands as a poignant relic frozen in time. Located at the corner of Fibbersley and Noose Lane in Willenhall, Walsall, this derelict site has been closed to the public for several years, yet its buildings and fuel pumps remain eerily intact.
A Glimpse into the Past
The station, which also operated as a vehicle repair workshop, featured a forecourt and a single-storey building housing a sales office and workshop. According to urban explorer Luke2Explore, who visited the site recently, machines and items have been left behind, creating a time capsule effect. These include an MGA 1200 modular exhaust gas analyser, an emissions testing machine, oil cans, and a road dynamometer.
Remarkably, the shop area still contains everyday essentials from its operational days, such as chocolate and sweets, toys, and oil fluids, offering a snapshot of life when the station was active. The site was listed for sale in May 2024 with a guide price of £750,000 by Fraser Wood Commercial, and it was noted that mains and water services were still available, along with large storage tanks that had not been treated since closure.
Local Memories and Reactions
The exploration has sparked a wave of nostalgia among local residents, with many sharing fond memories on social media. One woman recalled her grandfather being good friends with the owners, who would allow her to choose a sweet or chocolate to take home. Another commented on the sadness of seeing the station in its current state, suggesting it should be renovated to its original style, while a man who drives past regularly described it as a true time capsule.
This abandoned site serves as a tangible reminder of the area's industrial and social history, highlighting how such places can evoke strong emotional connections within the community. As urban decay continues, it raises questions about preservation and the future of similar historical landmarks in the Black Country region.
