|
Local Nature Reserve (Park Lime Pits)
The Pits contain beautiful clear pools surrounded by mature beech woodland. The
area, some 25 acres, provides homes for an incredible variety of wildlife. Over
100 species of birds and 300 species of plants have been recorded here.
Park Lime Pits is one of several sites linked by the Beacon
Way, a 17-mile walk stretching from Handsworth Wood to Chasewater.
History
The tranquil nature reserve seen today was a very
different sight 200 years ago. Then the area was a thriving limestone quarry.
The limestone was used as flux in the production of iron. Blocks of limestone were
taken from the quarry face to the canal in small trucks. From there it was
transported to the iron foundries of the Black Country by narrowboat.
The quarry has provided building materials for
centuries. Rushall limestone may have been used by the Romans to construct
Watling Street (the A5) and their settlement at Wall near Lichfield.
Park Lime Pits surrounded by agricultural land and
historic buildings such as Rushall Hall to the east. This was the site of two
bloody battles during the English Civil War. The limestone wall surrounding the
Hall dates back to the 13th century. The Hall itself was rebuilt in 1846.
When quarrying ceased at Park Lime Pits 150 years
 ago the
Victorians started to landscape the old workings. The magnificent beech trees
were planted at this time and the quarry filled with water, creating the pools
we see today.
The pools are well stocked with decent size fish such as a large head of
tench to 5lb, but also hold bream, roach, perch, the odd carp and pike. If
fishing is your game then permits can be acquired from Walsall
Countryside Services, at the cost of £2.50 per day or £2 for half a
day, juniors £1.
|
|
