Billesley Common

Settlement in Worcestershire

England

Billesley Common

Highfield Roundabout, Hall Green Credit: Darius Khan

Billesley Common is a public park located in the county of Worcestershire, England. Situated in the southern part of Birmingham, it covers an area of approximately 27 acres. The common is bordered by Yardley Wood Road to the east, Trittiford Road to the south, Brook Lane to the west, and Hollybank Road to the north.

Billesley Common offers a variety of facilities and amenities for visitors of all ages. Its open green spaces provide ample room for recreational activities such as walking, jogging, and picnicking. The common also features a children's playground equipped with swings, slides, and climbing frames, making it a popular destination for families. Furthermore, there are several sports fields, including football and rugby pitches, which are regularly used by local clubs and schools for training and matches.

In addition to its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, Billesley Common holds historical significance. It was once part of the Billesley Hall Estate, a grand mansion that stood on the grounds until it was demolished in the 1950s. The remnants of the estate's gardens can still be seen within the common, adding a touch of nostalgia to the park's landscape.

With its convenient location and diverse offerings, Billesley Common serves as a cherished community space for residents of Worcestershire and Birmingham. It is accessible by public transportation and has parking facilities available for those who prefer to drive. Overall, Billesley Common provides a peaceful retreat and a place for outdoor enjoyment in the heart of the West Midlands.

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Billesley Common Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.422933/-1.876001 or Grid Reference SP0880. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Highfield Roundabout, Hall Green

Darius Khan

Highfield Road, Hall Green

Darius Khan

St Peters Church, Hall Green

In 1923 following the growth of population in the area, and a generous gift of land from Colonel Jervaise, a small wooden building was erected and opened as a chapel (in September 1923) dedicated to St. Cadoc. Continued growth in numbers over the next 30 years eventually saw this building re-dedicated in 1954 to St. Peter and the appointment of the first resident priest, Fr. Joseph Adlam. Some 5 years later plans were made for a more permanent building when on April 18th 1959 tragedy struck. A fire engulfed the wooden church, that had served for so long, and plans for expansion lay in ashes. Using firstly a small wooden hut and later, the newly built parish hall, services were to continue for over four years before the completion of our wonderful new building. The foundation stone was laid on July 14th 1962 and building eventually completed for the official opening in 1964. Over the next two years life reverted to normal with the parish hall being used for social and group meetings rather than religious services. Father Adlam was unfortunately unable to enjoy the ‘fruits of his labours’ for very long. He died suddenly on November 4th 1966. At his funeral the Bishop of Aston, The Right Rev. David Porter, said ‘Your new church is the finest memorial that Joseph Adlam could possibly have. It epitomises all that he lived for, hoped for, and slaved for and, if ever a man could die happy in the knowledge of a task fulfilled, it was he.’

Darius Khan

Highfield House, Hall Green - Days before demolition

Highfield House is another historical building. It was built in 1850, making it the oldest house and the third oldest building in Hall Green. It was the farm house for Highfield Farm. The house was built in Georgian style with beautiful Neo-Classical features. It also retains the original sash windows. The demolition of the locally listed building has been proposed by developers, who want to build homes on the surrounding land. The ground floor of the house still has its wooden shutters fitted to the inside of each window frame which were closed and secured at night. The present day use for these shutters was to keep the house warm at night as they were very effective for excluding draughts but their original purpose was one of fortification against attack. When the house was built many isolated houses were a target for burglars, brigands and armed assault.

Darius Khan