Dudley's Wren's Nest National Nature Reserve is marking its 70th anniversary with a year-long programme of events and activities, celebrating its globally important geology and fossils. The reserve, designated as the UK's first geological national nature reserve in 1956, is recognised for its scientific, educational and community value.
The anniversary programme will officially launch on October 3 with an event at Dudley Archives and Local History Centre, featuring talks from members of the scientific community. Proposals for a new visitor facility and wardens' base will also be on show at the event.
A special part of Dudley's heritage
Councillor Damian Corfield, cabinet member for neighbourhoods at Dudley Council, highlighted the reserve's significance beyond the borough. "Wren's Nest National Nature Reserve is a special part of Dudley's natural and industrial heritage and its importance reaches far beyond the borough," he said.
"For 70 years it has been recognised for its exceptional geology, while generations of local people have helped care for and celebrate this remarkable place. This anniversary year is a fantastic opportunity to bring people together to discover more about its geology, wildlife and history."
Plans for new visitor facility
Dudley Council, with the support of the Friends of Wren's Nest National Nature Reserve, has submitted an application to the local planning authority for a new visitor facility and wardens' base. If approved, the next step is to source external funding for development.
Elaine Bouckley, a volunteer with the Friends group, expressed excitement about the plans. "We are very excited to share with the public the plans for the proposed visitor facility and wardens' base, which if approved, will bring us a step closer to an on-site facility that can provide a warm welcome to external visitors, volunteers and students," she said.
Collaborative anniversary celebrations
The 70th anniversary celebrations are being co-ordinated by Dudley Council, Natural England, the Friends group, the Black Country UNESCO Geopark partnership, and the Black Country Geological Society. Councillor Corfield encouraged residents and visitors to take part in the events and discover what makes Wren's Nest such a unique part of the borough.
"They can also find out more about exciting plans for the future, including the proposed new visitor facility and wardens' base," he added. The programme of events and activities will run throughout the year, beginning this autumn.
