Nature's way at Berryfields

Published by SanH for Sanctuary Housing Association in Communities and also in Health, Housing, Local Government

Residents from Berryfields, Sutton Coldfield, took a walk on the wild side over half term, as they celebrated the opening of their new and improved park, complete with a wooden sculpture nature trail.

Along with pupils from Holy Cross Catholic Primary School, residents came together for a fun day event, and to tread the trail of 15 wooden carvings, each depicting a creature from British wildlife. 

Designs for each of the woodland additions were inspired by the results of a local survey, which, as well as determining residents’ most coveted creatures, included a drawing competition to get the creative juices flowing. 

Those who put pen to paper had the chance to see their ideas brought to life by the commissioned sculpture artist Andy Barton.

The nature trail installation is the conclusion of a year-long programme of improvements to the play area, funded by Birmingham City Council’s Community Chest fund.  The project was delivered by the Birmingham City Council’s Sutton Coldfield Community Development team in partnership with Parks  and Sanctuary Housing.

Local resident Roxanna Salari, said: “There has been so much to do for the kids; it’s great to get them outdoors in the school holidays and enjoying nature.”

As part of the celebrations, the fun day also featured bird box making with the Council’s park rangers, storytelling from Sutton Coldfield Children’s Library,

play activities with the Birmingham City Council Detached Play Workers, and animal mask making courtesy of Sutton Coldfield YMCA[b2] . 

The undoubted highlight of the day was a live chainsaw demonstration given by the sculpture artist Andy Barton, who spent the day sculpting a bear.

Special guest for the celebratory event, Mr. David Barrie – councillor for Sutton New Hall ward − said: “Today has been fantastic for the local community; it’s great to see so many people out and enjoying themselves at this fantastic local resource.”

Christa Ripley, regional manager for the Midlands, added: “All children and young people need to play. It’s a natural impulse and is fundamental to the healthy development and wellbeing of both individuals and communities.

“This has been a very successful partnership project, making a wonderful addition to the community, and we are grateful to Birmingham City Council for their generous funding and support in helping to develop a thriving community at Berryfields.”