Birchmeadow playing fields
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A 5.3 hectare area consisting of woodland, a football pitch and play area, the Birchmeadow Playing Field is recognised as an important area for recreation by the residents of Broseley.
With a surprising historical background, this area of land is also recognised as a very important part of the industrial heritage of Broseley. However, rather than being used for educational purposes, the area which is the only park in Broseley, is used mainly by people wanting to relax, play football or walk the dog.
The Birchmeadow playing field is land held in charitable trust for the free recreation of the people of Broseley. As sole custodians of the park, Shropshire Council maintains the area whilst leaving the woodland unmanaged in order to create a more natural area for people to enjoy.
History
Broseley has a strong claim to being the site of the first ever wooden railway. Propelled by horse, manpower or gravity, the railway would have served the once existent coal-mine and surrounding iron-works that is now the site of the Birchmeadow playing fields. Other wooden railways in Lancashire and Wales were apparently inspired by the example of the West Midlands, more specifically the success of the railway in Shropshire on the South bank of the River Severn around Broseley.
The history surrounding the Birchmeadow Playing Fields is important in relation to the shape of the existing area. It could be beneficial for future projects to celebrate Broseley’s role in the invention of the railway and early industrial revolution and lift the area from the shadow of neighbouring Ironbridge.
Play Equipment
If developed in a way that is sensitive to both the needs of the community and of the environment, the Birchmeadow playing fields could be the perfect place to celebrate the towns’ contribution to the modern world. After all, it was in Shropshire that the words railway and railroad were invented.
We would be grateful to hear from you regarding the Birchmeadow Playing Fields and the ideas we have put forward to make the area a nicer place to be. If you feel that you have anything to add or would simply like to voice your opinion over the matter please do not hesitate to contact us.