Fox Hollies Park in Acocks Green to be transformed in £500,000 plans

Fox Hollies Park in Acocks Green is set to undergo a major refurbishment worth almost £500,000 next year.

Working with the local community, a development plan was drawn up by Birmingham City Council for the site in 2017 that has seen new fencing installed to protect the park - and the next stage of work is expected to begin in spring of next year, with completion planned in the summer of 2022.

What facilities will be upgraded?

New play equipment, improvements to the Gospel Lane skate park, new seating, and alterations to paths are among the improvements planned as part of a newly-approved council project.

Further surfacing and fencing improvements, alterations to paths, tree planting and other associated landscape improvements are also planned through the project.

Why is the park so popular?

Fox Hollies Park is considered to be the most historic park in Acocks Green, and even has remains going back to 1500 B.C.

The park encompasses 40 acres, including trees, grassland and a scenic lake where fishing is available.

Fox Hollies Leisure Centre, which has a gym, swimming pool and as well as sports halls and courts, is also based in the park.

There’s a 2 kilometre walking route through the park, which is also just a short distance to the city centre.

What has the council said about the project?

Cllr John O’Shea, Cabinet Member for Street Scene and Parks, said: “This project shows exactly what can be achieved when our communities and the council come together to improve our neighbourhoods.

“Fox Hollies Park is a much-loved and well-used resource, which needs investment if it is to continue being a place that can help improve the health and well-being of people in Acocks Green and the wider area.

“I look forward to seeing the project when it is complete and to the park being used and enjoyed by residents and visitors.”

Extensive consultation was undertaken to develop the plans, including a leaflet drop to 2,500 homes in the area, an event for the public that was hosted by the Friends of Fox Hollies Park and two rounds of consultation on the council’s Be Heard website, all of which has helped shape the project now being delivered.

Funding for the scheme is coming from Section 106 contributions, secured from the developers of four other projects in the city through the planning processes.

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