Cole Valley Catchment Landscape Vision

October 2019 Cole Valley Catchment Landscape Vision

> Contents

> Introduction 2 > Approach 4 > Catchment Overview 7 > Vision and Strategic Objectives 14 > Action Zones 17 > Opportunity Sites 32 > Case Study Site Proposals 35 > Next Steps 46

> Appendices

> A: Baseline Mapping > B: Masterplan > C: Case Study Site Proposals > D: Steering Group Commitment

© Environment Agency 2019 All rights reserved. This document may be reproduced with prior permission of the Environment Agency. All photographs taken by Atkins unless otherwise noted.

1 Introduction

Travelling north from Sarehole Mill

2 Cole Valley Catchment Landscape Vision 10 Year Vision: Introduction Driving cultural interest to create a valued and multi-functional green corridor within the River Cole catchment that acts as a catalyst for future change and investment.

Biodiversity, water quality and fl ood resilience enhancements will provide an inspiring environment to protect the area for future generations, whilst creating opportunities for access to nature, appreciation of cultural heritage and healthy Background Stakeholdercommunities that areEngagement proud of their River.

Strategic Objectives: The Environment Agency (EA) and the Tame Valley Wetlands Landscape Partnership (TVWLP) To facilitate preparation of a successful and deliverable vision a Project Steering Group identified the potential for the production of a landscape vision and masterplan for the River wasCreate formed a high qualitywith blue/greenkey local corridor stakeholders along the River to Cole inform through and East shape , its development. North and North The Project Cole Catchment in the West . SteeringWarwickshire Group that can met be usedregularly as an alternative throughout travel route the for development local or commuting ofjourneys the visionwithout the and car. consisted of representativesEnhance the natural from: and historic Birmingham environment, Cityimprove Council; biodiversity Solihull and water Metropolitan quality, reduce fl ood Borough risk and highlight Council; the The River Cole is situated within a significant area of green infrastructure between East Warwickshireopportunities for Countynatural capital Council; and environmental North net gain. Borough Council; Birmingham, North Solihull and . The area contains major transport CombinedRe-connect localAuthority; communities Birmingham and businesses &with Black their local Country public open Wildlife space, Trust;help them Warwickshire value what the River Wildlife provides Trust; for them, improving wellbeing and resilience through social prescribing and identifying links between behavioural change and infrastructure with the existing motorway network and future HS2 route passing through the Naturalfl ooding/environmental ; and improvements. Severn Trent Water. river valley. The Cole Valley also forms part of the Tame Valley Wetlands Nature Improvement Stimulate partnership working across multiple stakeholders to coordinate approaches to catchment-wide issues, deliver local Area (NIA) designated in 2017, and the Birmingham and NIA designated in Thepolicy project aspirations was and also unlock represented multiple funding during opportunities. a public event held at the Tyseley Energy Park, 2012. attended by local community groups, residents and businesses who had the opportunity to discussProject the Steering project, Group: share information and suggest opportunities. The purpose is to provide a common vision for the future of the river valley which is agreed The Cole Valley Catchment Landscape Vision has been developed through the support, contributions and expertise of the organisations listed below. Individuals within those organisations are committed to supporting the ongoing delivery of the 10 by stakeholders and can act as an aspirational brochure for investment decisions and ThisYear report Vision and is justStrategic the Objectives. start of the visioning engagement process and all proposals will need improvement in the area. This document sets out that vision and will be used to guide further consultation and detailed design along with securing appropriate funding prior to development, assist with engagement, and secure funding for the delivery of blue green implementation. infrastructure over the next ten years.

There is the need and potential for concerted action and projects to enhance the connective corridor for wildlife and for key and threatened species that require particular action e.g. water voles, kingfisher, waders, otters, willow and marsh tit and invertebrates. Alongside larger opportunities, there are a range of smaller scale but important projects that will make a difference for a range of species and habitats, enhancing the catchment for wildlife and also for people to experience rich and varied wildlife within this important blue corridor.

Amelia Russell CMLI CEnv Principal Environmental Project Manager National Environmental Assessment & Sustainability (NEAS)

National Operations Assets & Programme Management Environment Agency 0203 025 2617 [email protected] Sapphire East, 550 Streetsbrook Road, Solihull, B91 1QT

3 Approach

View along River Cole from pedestrian bridge north of Meriden Park

4 Approach

As the process of visioning at a catchment level is an emerging process, the approach was Catchment Overview developed between Atkins, the Environment Agency and Tame Valley Wetlands Landscape An initial mapping exercise was undertaken to inform analysis of the catchment features Partnership through reference to previous linear infrastructure and river corridor studies, and designations covering: Topography and Drainage; Landscape and Ecology; Heritage; feedback on successful approaches from project stakeholders and a response to the specific Accessibility; Local Context; Built Form; Tranquillity; and Dark Skies. issues associated with the Cole Valley Catchment. A broad literature and policy review was undertaken covering: Local Planning Policy; Methodology Environment Agency data; and other Local Plans, Neighbourhood Plans and initiatives. The landscape vision has been developed with delivery in mind. The process for delivery is made clear so as not to lose the input and support from the stakeholders in developing the Following completion of the desk-study exercises, a site visit was undertaken along the agreed vision. The methodology is outlined below across six broad stages: length of the River Cole through the catchment to ground-truth findings and understand the • Catchment Overview nature of specific features and areas along the river. • Vision and Strategic Objectives • Masterplan Vision and Strategic Objectives • Case Study Site Proposals At the first Steering Group meeting all stakeholders were invited to share their thoughts on • Detailed Design what the Cole Valley Catchment meant to them and how the landscape vision could help • Implementation and Management to support their organisations own vision and objectives. This feedback was collated and reviewed alongside the findings of the mapping and literature review to identify correlation This document covers the first three stages of the process for the Cole Valley Catchment. and synergies between them.

Scope of Document

Vision and Catchment Opportunity Focus Site Strategic Action Zones Detailed design Implementation Overview Sites Proposals Objectives

Masterplan

5 Approach

A draft vision and strategic objectives were presented to a subsequent Steering Group Illustration of the relationship between Vision and Strategic Objectives, Action Zones and meeting and comments sought from all stakeholders and discussed. Once agreed, all Opportunity Sites: stakeholders co-signed a copy of the vision and objectives to demonstrate their shared commitment to supporting the ongoing delivery of the Vision and Strategic Objectives.

Masterplan Due to the varied nature of the catchment the needs and approach required to achieve Vision and Strategic Objectives the vision and strategic objectives would be different depending on the location. To communicate and manage this variation the masterplan has been developed in two stages: Action Zones; and Opportunity Sites. Action Action Action Action Zones are broad areas that have a similar character, condition, issues and Zone A Zone B Zone C opportunities. Opportunity Sites are defined parcels of land, lengths of river or specific points of the catchment around the River Cole within which a project or groups of projects could be delivered.

For each Opportunity Site specific details are captured to define: A brief description of identified opportunities; Lead Stakeholder; Primary Objective; Capital Cost; Operational Cost; Ease of Delivery; and Time Horizon.

Case Study Sites Opportunity 1 Site Opportunity 2 Site Opportunity 3 Site Opportunity 4 Site Opportunity 5 Site Opportunity 6 Site Opportunity 7 Site Opportunity 8 Site Opportunity 9 Site Successful delivery of the agreed Vision, Strategic Objectives and Masterplan relies upon the correct interpretation of those aspects of the project. To demonstrate how this can be achieved, and undertake engagement with stakeholders on quick win projects, three Case Study Sites were agreed with the Steering Group, one for each of the local authority areas. Case Study Sites covered multiple Opportunity Sites and demonstrate delivery approaches through preparation of concept designs and indicative costings.

6 Catchment Overview

River Cole to the east of Ackers Adventure

7 Catchment Overview

Extent

The Cole Valley is located across three local authority areas covering Birmingham, Solihull and North Warwickshire. The River Cole is 34 km in length, it is part of the Tame Lower Rivers and Lakes Operational Catchment, Tame Anker and Mease Management Catchment and River Basin.

This study focuses on the lower 24 km of the river, specifically the two waterbodies (illustrated on the plan on the following page): Cole from Springfield to Hatchford- Kingshurst Brook; and Cole from Hatchford-Kingshurst Brook to R Blythe. For the purposes of the landscape vision, the two waterbodies are considered together to form a single study area. A summary of each catchment from data on the EA Catchment Data Explorer is provided below.

Cole from Springfield to Hatchford-Kingshurst Brook: Id: GB104028042502 View south from A34 Stratford Road bridge Type: River Hydromorphological designation: Not designated artificial or heavily modified NGR: SP1263387762 Catchment area: 3,499.14 ha Length: 14.988 km Surveillance Water Body: No Catchment area: 34.991 km2 Cycle 2 Overall (2016): Poor (Ecology - Poor, Chemical - Good)

Cole from Hatchford-Kingshurst Brook to R Blythe: Id: GB104028042420 Type: River Hydromorphological designation: Heavily modified NGR: SP1902089066 Catchment area: 1,083.38 ha Length: 8.307 km Surveillance Water Body: No Catchment area: 10.834 km2 Cycle 2 Overall (2016): Moderate (Ecology - Moderate, Chemical - Good) River bank at Cole End Park

8 Catchment Overview

Cole Valley Catchment I Landscape Vision Accessibility

Cole Valley Catchment I Landscape Vision River Cole Catchment (Lower Waterbodies) and River Corridor Accessibility Waterbody

River Cole Catchment (Lower Waterbodies) ColeshillCanal and River Corridor Waterbody Cole from Hatchford- Kingshurst Brook to R Blythe Stechford Birmingham City Centre

Tyseley

Cole from Springfield Birmingham to Hatchford- International

Kingshurst Brook Notes: Moseley Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0

0 0.5 1 2 Km

Scale (at A3): 1:50,000

Notes: Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0

0 0.5 1 2 Km

Scale (at A3): 1:50,000

Status: Purpose of issue: Rev: Model File Identifier: S1 Issue 3.0 N/A

Drawing number: Drawn: Checked: Authorised:

CVCLV-ATK-00-XX-DR-L-00005 30/08/2019 30/08/2019 30/08/2019

The Axis, 10 Holliday Street, Birmingham, B1 1TF www.atkinsglobal.com 9

Status: Purpose of issue: Rev: Model File Identifier: S1 Issue 3.0 N/A

Drawing number: Drawn: Checked: Authorised:

CVCLV-ATK-00-XX-DR-L-00005 30/08/2019 30/08/2019 30/08/2019

The Axis, 10 Holliday Street, Birmingham, B1 1TF www.atkinsglobal.com Catchment Overview

Environmental and Social Context River Tame and the River Avon in Warwickshire, the Arden landscape also extends into north to abut the Severn and Avon Vales. To the north and northeast it drops down Desk-top analysis and research of the environmental context of the catchment has been to the open landscape of the Mease/Sence Lowlands. undertaken and is summarised below, associated baseline mapping is provided in Appendix A. The Natural England Area Profile includes settlement and development as a pressure for landscape change, where growth proposals seem to be focussed around the east of Topography and Drainage Birmingham and north Solihull. Identified opportunities include: The topography of the catchment varies in height from a high point of around 165m AOD at • The creation of new networks of woodlands, heathlands and green infrastructure, Moseley in the south-west to a low point of 74m AOD outside Coleshill in the north-east. The linking urban areas like Birmingham and with the wider countryside to nature of landform within the catchment varies from a shallow valley in the western half to a increase biodiversity, recreation and the potential for biomass and the regulation of more open and flatter landscape in the eastern half. climate. • Enhance the value of Arden’s aquatic features such as the characteristic river valleys, A number of historic landfill sites are situated in close proximity to the River Cole throughout meadows and standing water areas to increase resource protection, such as soil erosion, the catchment. These create some unnatural landforms at a local scale but also present a soil quality and water quality. constraint and risk to future opportunities within the area. The catchment includes two Nature Improvement Areas (NIAs). The Birmingham and Black At the western end of the catchment the river is relatively straight with gentle meanders and Country NIA aims “To achieve long-term environmental gains for the wildlife and people of a mix of culverted and hard-edged sections. East of Stechford the river banks are generally Birmingham & the Black Country by delivering targeted, on-the-ground, biodiversity projects soft and meanders become more pronounced. The passes east-west at a landscape scale.” The Tame Valley Wetlands NIA has a wide variety of habitats that host a through the southern half of the catchment and passes over the River Cole just north of rich diversity of wildlife and rare species. Home to several of the most important wildlife sites Tyseley. The and River Tame run parallel to the River Cole to the north and west of in the Midlands, this regionally important river corridor is also a vital north-south migration the catchment. route, providing essential resting and feeding places for hundreds of migrating birds.

There are a small number of tributaries along the length of the river, most notably the A variety of landscape and environmental features and designations are present within the Hatchford-Kingshurst Brook which joins from the south at Meriden Park. Mill ponds and catchment, including: Site of Special Scientific Interest; Traditional Orchard; Open Mosaic lakes are a feature of the catchment, associated with a group of around 60 mills that used to Habitat; Coastal and floodplain grazing marsh; Doorstep Green; Millennium Green; and exist along the River Cole and River Rea, including Babbs Mill and Sarehole Mill. Low-density Shrubs/Young Trees, Deciduous Woodland, Mixed Woodland and Evergreen Woodland. Flood Zones 2 and 3 are present throughout the length of the catchment. Flooding of residential properties and businesses is a particular issue around Sparkhill, with flooding Due to the urban nature of much of the catchment, these are generally situated in close occuring most recently in May 2018. proximity to the river itself, and are not widespread in areas beyond. This dynamic places local importance and value on those features in provision of habitat and ecosystem services Landscape and Ecology that are locally rare. The position of the features along the river is often disparate, resulting in The catchment is located within National Character Area 97, Arden, which comprises the river being the notable link and connection between them. farmland and former wood-pasture lying to the south and east of Birmingham, including part of the West Midlands conurbation. Traditionally regarded as the land lying between the

10 Catchment Overview

Heritage Local Facilities and Built Form The catchment contains a range of heritage features as well as a diverse social and Within close proximity to the river are a high number of local centres, providing ease of development context. connectivity between the corridor and shops/businesses.

Within the catchment there is a broad distribution of: Grade I, II* and II Listed Buildings; a The pattern of urban form within the catchment is predominantly small scale residential Registered Park & Garden; Scheduled Monuments; Ancient and Semi-Natural Woodland; streets and properties. Exceptions include larger scale and footprint buildings around Planted Ancient Woodland Sites; Woodpasture and Parkland; and Conservation Areas. Tyseley, Stechford and Lea Hall associated with industrial and business uses.

Whilst distributed throughout the catchment, few designated heritage features are situated The catchment is broadly urban in nature but there are notable open spaces around the in the immediate vicinity of the river itself - primarily some isolated listed buildings and the River Cole itself and towards the eastern extent beyond the M6. Coleshill Conservation Area. Tranquillity and Night Lights Accessibility The Campaign to Protect Rural England tranquillity mapping illustrates that the majority There are a diverse range of accessible spaces and routes within and around the catchment of the catchment is located within areas of relatively low tranquillity. Notably, the mapping including: Sustrans National Cycle Route 53; Local Nature Reserves; Kingfisher Country Park; illustrates pockets of elevated tranquillity immediately around the River Cole heading Public Rights of Way; Common Land; CRoW Access Land; CRoW S15 Land; and a range of eastwards from Stechford. public open spaces (Allotment/Growing Space, Sports Pitches, Play Spaces and Public Parks). Due to the urban nature of the catchment, night light mapping illustrates that the majority Open spaces within the catchment are focused on the river corridor but are also scattered of the catchment is affected by light pollution. Whilst that is the case at a strategic level, the around the wider area. Along the River Cole, there are large sections of connected and majority of spaces and paths immediately around the river corridor itself are not lit. accessible open space, however there are some notable gaps in connectivity and access around Tyseley and east of the M6. Index of Multiple Deprivation The mapping shows that the majority of the catchment has relatively increased levels of Local Connectivity deprivation than the wider area. The upper and lower ends of the catchment have relatively The local connectivity through the catchment is primarily facilitated by the local road low levels of deprivation. Immediately outside the catchment there are notable locations of network. However, there are major road corridors in the form of the M42, M6, A34, A41, relatively low deprivation, including at Sparkbrook, Garretts Green and . A45, A4040 and A446. There are two railway corridors passing through the catchment, from Birmingham to Solihull and Birmingham International respectively. Stations within the catchment include Stechford, Lea Hall, , Tyseley, Spring Road and Hall Green. The proposed HS2 alignment would also pass through the catchment towards the eastern end. These major transport corridors tend to cross the River Cole rather than run parallel to it. Due to the built-up nature of the area the majority of the transport corridors exert little influence on the overall character of the catchment, particularly west of the M6, however they do provide some barriers to connectivity along the river corridor. The Midlands Metro East Birmingham to Solihull extension will also create new connectivity across the Catchment.

11 History of the River Cole The River Cole bears one of the oldest names in Birmingham. Many rivers retained their Celtic names after the arrival of the Anglo-Saxons, and this one refers to 'hazel trees'.

1st-2nd Century AD Evidence for a Roman-Celtic temple, industrial areas (including smithing) and settlement have been excavated at Grimstock Hill, north of Coleshill in Warwickshire. This settlement sat at the boundary between two powerful Iron Age tribes (the Coritanni in the east and the Cornovii in the west).

1086 At Domesday, William the Conqueror held the manor of Coleshill; a market charter was granted to Coleshill in 1207 highlighting its importance as a regional centre.

1496 Simon Digby was awarded the Catchment Overview manor of Coleshill by King Henry VII following the Battle of Bosworth.

Mid 16th century Now a scheduled monument, Coleshill bridge was built over the River Cole. It was later History of the River Cole widened for road traffic.

The River Cole bears one of the oldest names in 1600-1649- Birmingham. Many rivers retained their Celtic It is said that in the first part of the 17th century Charles I names after the arrival of the Anglo-Saxons, and fished in the River Cole off the Birmingham Road. this one refers to 'hazel trees'.

1st-2nd Century AD 1745 Evidence for a Roman-Celtic temple, industrial areas (including smithing) and settlement have been Coventry Road turnpike set excavated at Grimstock Hill, north of Coleshill in Warwickshire. This settlement sat at the boundary out, where a tollgate stood between two powerful Iron Age tribes (the Coritanni in the east and the Cornovii in the west). at the River Cole crossing.

1086 1756 At Domesday, William the Conqueror held the manor of Coleshill; a market charter was Matthew Boulton, one of the pioneers of the industrial revolution and leading figure granted to Coleshill in 1207 highlighting its importance as a regional centre. of the Lunar Society, leased Sarehole Mill and used it as a ‘flatting mill’, producing sheet metal used for button manufacturing. 1496 Simon Digby was awarded the manor of Coleshill by King Henry VII 1800 following the Battle of Bosworth. The and Birmingham Canal opened with an aqueduct over the River Cole at Tyseley, later Mid 16th century this canal was amalgamated into what is now known as the Grand Union Canal. Now a scheduled monument, Coleshill bridge was built over the River Cole. It was later widened for road traffic. 1820 The Coventry Road which runs over the 1600-1649- River Cole was improved by Thomas Telford It is said that in the first part of the 17th century Charles I as part of the London-Holyhead Mail Road. fished in the River Cole off the Birmingham Road. 1850s 1745 Sarehole Mill, a Grade II listed water mill has a Coventry Road turnpike set steam engine and chimney built which provides it out, where a tollgate stood with its distinctive silhoutte. There previously was a at the River Cole crossing. mill on this site since 1542.

1756 1966 Matthew Boulton, one of the pioneers of the industrial revolution and leading figure Tolkien describes Sarehole Mill, which he lived close too at the turn of the century. It is said of the Lunar Society, leased Sarehole Mill and used it as a ‘flatting mill’, producing the mill and surrounding area provided much inspiration for ‘Lord Of The Rings’. sheet metal used for button manufacturing. ‘It was a kind of lost paradise... There was an old mill that really did grind corn with two millers, a great big pond with swans on it, a sandpit, a wonderful dell with flowers, a few old-fashioned village houses and, further away, a 1800 stream with another mill. I always knew it would go – and it did.’ The Warwick and Birmingham Canal opened with an aqueduct over the River Cole at Tyseley, later 1977 this canal was amalgamated into what is now Babbs Mill Park was created in 1977 to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of HM Queen known as the Grand Union Canal. Elizabeth II. Complete with the River Cole and Babbs Mill Lake it is recognised as a Local Nature Reserve. 1820 1989 The Coventry Road which runs over the M42 completed with a bridge over the River Cole. River Cole was improved by Thomas Telford as part of the London-Holyhead Mail Road. 2003 Junction 7a of the M6 was opened, which runs over the River Cole 1850s Sarehole Mill, a Grade II listed water mill has a steam engine and chimney built which provides it with its distinctive silhoutte. There previously was a mill on this site since 1542.

1966 Tolkien describes Sarehole Mill, which he lived close too at the turn of the century. It is said the mill and surrounding area provided much inspiration for ‘Lord Of The Rings’. 12 ‘It was a kind of lost paradise... There was an old mill that really did grind corn with two millers, a great big pond with swans on it, a sandpit, a wonderful dell with flowers, a few old-fashioned village houses and, further away, a stream with another mill. I always knew it would go – and it did.’

1977 Babbs Mill Park was created in 1977 to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of HM Queen Elizabeth II. Complete with the River Cole and Babbs Mill Lake it is recognised as a Local Nature Reserve. 1989 M42 completed with a bridge over the River Cole. 2003 Junction 7a of the M6 was opened, which runs over the River Cole Catchment Overview

LDF Sustainable future Nov 2013:Layout 1 25/11/13 13:29 Page A Policy and Development Context

Solihull Local Plan The Cole Valley Catchment Landscape Vision will be delivered within the context of existing Shaping a Sustainable Future Local Plans and initiatives across Birmingham, Solihull and Warwickshire. Delivery of the December 2013 Vision aligns with and supports wide-ranging and cross-boundary aspirations covering sustainable travel, access to green spaces, health and wellbeing, green infrastructure, biodiversity, climate change and heritage.

BIRMINGHAM DEVELOPMENT PLAN Whilst the policy documentation is clear on local aspirations, it is not always clear how they Part of Birmingham’s Local Plan

Planning for sustainable growth will be achieved. This Vision document aims to provide the interpretation of broad policy Adopted January 2017 aspirations in a specific manner for the Cole Valley Catchment to enable successful delivery of policy. NORTH WARWICKSHIRE

Green Space Strategy

Requirements for housing within the West Midlands, and the potential for development in 2019 to 2033

the eastern end of the catchment following delivery of HS2, will result in future pressure on green and open spaces within the catchment to be allocated for development. This Vision aims to protect the river corridor for future generations whilst enhancing it in ways that will benefit existing and future populations around it.

The corridor provides an opportunity to inform future development but also a location for future development sites to provide and deliver environmental enhancements beyond their red line boundary and deliver ecosystem services locally and regionally.

THE TAME VALLEY SHAPING THE FUTURE OF COLESHILL LANDSCAPE VISION 2015-2030 DEVELOPMENT

Professor Kathryn Moore

Commissioned by the Tame Valley Wetlands Landscape Partnership

November 2016

13 Vision and Strategic Objectives

View from within Cole End Park

14 Vision and Strategic Objectives

Vision Driving cultural interest to create a valued and multi-functional green corridor within the River Cole catchment that acts as a catalyst for future change and investment.

Biodiversity, water quality and flood resilience enhancements will provide an inspiring environment to protect the area for future generations, whilst creating opportunities for access to nature, appreciation of cultural heritage and healthy communities that are proud of their River.

15 Vision and Strategic Objectives

Strategic Objectives

Create a high quality blue/green corridor along the River Cole through East Birmingham, North Solihull and North Warwickshire that can be used as an alternative travel route for local or commuting journeys without the car.

Enhance the natural and historic environment, improve biodiversity and water quality, reduce flood risk and highlight the opportunities for natural capital and environmental net gain.

Re-connect local communities and businesses with their local public open space, help them value what the River provides for them, improving wellbeing and resilience through social prescribing and identifying links between behavioural change and flooding/environmental improvements.

Stimulate partnership working across multiple stakeholders to coordinate approaches to catchment-wide issues, deliver local policy aspirations and unlock multiple funding opportunities.

16 Action Zones

View north from Formans Road bridge

17 Action Zones

Six Action Zones have been identified across the catchment, an overview of the context, issues and opportunities for each is provided below and across the following pages.

Action Zone 1 Catchment Wide Action Zone 6 Kingshurst Brook to

Action Zone 5 Action Zone 4 Packington Avenue to Kingshurst Brook A45 Coventry Road to Packington Avenue

Action Zone 3 Formans Road to A45 Coventry Road

Action Zone 2 Sarehole Mill to Formans Road

18 Action Zones

Action Zone 1: Catchment Wide Flood Storage Areas (FSAs): FSAs are natural or man-made areas that temporarily fill with water during periods of high river level, retaining a volume of water which is released back This Action Zone is different to other Action Zones in that it covers the whole of the Cole in to the watercourse after the peak river flows have passed. Enhancing the biodiversity Valley Catchment area. It has been created to capture masterplan-level opportunities that value and other benefits of FSAs can be achieved if considered into the design process for would apply equally across the catchment as a whole, rather than within a specific Action new FSAs. An Environment Agency study has identified that there could be up to 10 broad Zone. areas suitable for the creation of FSAs within the catchment. Whilst the lead stakeholder for implementation of FSAs would be the Environment Agency, opportunities for delivery and Invasive Species: A range of invasive species are present throughout the catchment, inclusion of FSAs within other projects should be considered by all stakeholders. particularly Japanese knotweed and Himalayan balsam. Whilst individual areas can be treated and removed, the problem is best approached on a catchment-wide basis Sustainable Drainage Retrofit: Sustainable drainage mimics natural drainage, infiltrating and to reduce the risk of recolonisation along the watercourse as a result of remaining attenuating runoff and pollutants at source, slowing down and removing pollutants along plants. Some biocontrol measures are being trialled in a number of locations within the pathways, and limiting the effect on receptors. As well as dealing with everyday run-off, catchment, including around Tyseley and Coleshill. Should these trials be successful they they can be designed to help manage more extreme weather events. They can also be made could be delivered more extensively. The lead organisation for this initiative would be the more flexible and adaptable to the potential effects of climate change and urbanisation Environment Agency. while providing other multi-functional benefits such as visual amenity and biodiversity. Opportunities to retrofit sustainable drainage within the catchment should be explored Misconnections: Pollution from drainage misconnections can also kill plants and fish, to help alleviate local surface water flooding and deliver on the Cole Valley Catchment create foul smells and is often visually unpleasant. It can also pose a risk to the health of the Vision and Strategic Objectives, particularly in locations away from the immediate river community, particularly children and animals. There are notable instances along the River environment. The lead organisation for this initiative would be the Lead Local Flood Cole where misconnections are present, fixing and preventing these will facilitate wider Authority with support from Severn Trent Water where appropriate. improvements in the amenity, water quality and biodiversity of the area and ensure other initiatives can be successful. Water pollution from drains and sewers can be reduced by: • Raising awareness and understanding about misconnections, sewers and drains and the environmental problems that they cause. • Helping property owners and professionals to check drainage connections and take action. • Ensuring new drainage is connected properly. • Helping to develop and support effective practice, policy and regulation. • Sharing information and evidence about the problem and supporting research and development of long term solutions.

The lead organisation for this initiative would be Severn Trent Water, further information on misconnections can be found at www.connectright.org.uk. Japanese knotweed on the opposite bank to Knowle Road Allotments

19 Action Zones

Cole Valley Catchment I Landscape Vision Accessibility

Cole Valley Catchment I Landscape Vision River Cole Catchment (Lower Waterbodies) Canal and River Corridor Accessibility Waterbody

River Cole Catchment (Lower Waterbodies) Canal and River Corridor Waterbody Cole from Hatchford- F F Kingshurst Brook to F Coleshill R Blythe Stechford F Potential FSA Birmingham F locations City Centre

Tyseley

Cole from Springfield Birmingham to Hatchford- F International

Kingshurst Brook Notes: Moseley Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0

0 0.5 1 2 Km F F Scale (at A3): 1:50,000

Notes: Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0

0 0.5 1 2 Km

Scale (at A3): 1:50,000

Status: Purpose of issue: Rev: Model File Identifier: S1 Issue 3.0 N/A

Drawing number: Drawn: Checked: Authorised:

CVCLV-ATK-00-XX-DR-L-00005 30/08/2019 30/08/2019 30/08/2019

The Axis, 10 Holliday Street, Birmingham, B1 1TF www.atkinsglobal.com 20

Status: Purpose of issue: Rev: Model File Identifier: S1 Issue 3.0 N/A

Drawing number: Drawn: Checked: Authorised:

CVCLV-ATK-00-XX-DR-L-00005 30/08/2019 30/08/2019 30/08/2019

The Axis, 10 Holliday Street, Birmingham, B1 1TF www.atkinsglobal.com Action Zones

Branding and Identity: The signage, materials and street furniture along the length of the River Cole varies as a result of implementation by multiple stakeholders, incremental change over time and the lack of a catchment-wide approach. If the Vision and Strategic Objectives are to be achieved then a consistent approach to branding and identity would help to realise that and help to make the connections along the length. A branding exercise should be undertaken for the Cole Valley alongside development of a design guide covering signage, materials and street furniture for both general and key locations. This would need to be implemented by all but it is suggested that either the West Midlands Combined Authority or Environment Agency take a lead on production of this (as organisations with an interest across the whole catchment) to be adopted by all organisations working in and around the River Cole.

Friends Groups: A number of small and emerging Friends Groups exist within the catchment, however they need support from others to facilitate wider engagement of the community, share resources and knowledge across groups, and have a plan of activities that they can Functional and damaged signage undertake directly related to achieving the Vision and Strategic Objectives. The ‘Love Your River’ campaign is backed by Defra, the National Trust, the Environment Agency, the Wildlife Trusts, Keep Britain Tidy, water companies and Waterwise, to promote the value and benefits of our rivers to our everyday life. A Love Your River group for the River Cole would help to achieve this and would be led by the Wildlife Trusts.

Ranger Service: Due to the lack of maintenance budgets available to local authority teams, they are limited in how much work they can undertake within the catchment, mainly for grass cutting, urgent safety or essential maintenance tasks only. A number of benefits could be achieved across the catchment through a more strategic approach to management of the existing landscape and habitats along the River Cole. A dedicated ranger service for the River Cole would enable this to take place and realise some of the latent opportunities that already exist within the catchment and do not require capital expenditure. The presence of a visible ranger service could also assist with reducing littering, vandalism and anti-social behaviour. As this initiative crosses multiple local authority areas, the lead stakeholder would be the West Midlands Combined Authority.

Wayfinding from Grand Union Canal

21 Action Zones

Action Zone 2: Sarehole Mill to Formans Road

This Action Zone has a clear heritage focus through the presence of Sarehole Mill with its associated built environment and cultural influence. The Mill is a place that acts as a destination to users of the River Cole and includes a car park, maps and accessible surface routes. The area is generally of wooded character around the River Cole providing a sense of enclosure and separation from the surrounding urban context. Access alongside the River Cole is primarily on the western bank.

Issues that are specific or particularly relevant to this Action Zone are described below: • Presence of weirs that result in negative impacts for habitats (primarily for fish), sediment transfer and flooding. • A number of engineered river banks and retaining walls resulting in little marginal habitat and fast-flowing water in places. • Minor instances of vandalism to the northern end impacting on perception and potential use by the wider community. • A break in the visual and physical connectivity to the river for people at the crossing of the A34 Stratford Road.

Opportunities that are specific or particularly relevant to this Action Zone are described below: • Use of weir as stepping stones into a more natural environment alongside the river. • River enhancements to remove engineered features, improve habitat management and incorporate in-channel improvements. • Provision of a crossing point and improved entrance features/spaces to the river corridor on either side of the A34 Stratford Road. • Promotion and enhancement of the Green Road ford as a hidden gem of a more rural context within the surrounding urban area.

0 500 1,000 m

22 Action Zones

Action Zone 2: Sarehole Mill to Formans Road

Information panel at Sarehole Mill Travelling north from Sarehole Mill The River Cole east of Sarehole Mill

Ford at Green Road Weir north of Green Road Access to River Cole from A34 Stratford Road

23 Action Zones

Action Zone 3: Formans Road to A45 Coventry Road Issues that are specific or particularly relevant to this Action Zone are described below: • Weirs near Ackers Adventure result in negative impacts for habitats (primarily for fish), Formans Road marks the start of ‘main river’ and Environment Agency responsibility. The sediment transfer and flooding. character of the catchment becomes more industrial in nature as the river passes through • Pollution from tributaries and adjacent industrial areas. Tyseley. The nature of the river itself varies from high retaining walls and culverted sections • Littering and dumping of waste within and around the river. to high and steep wooded banks. There is evidence of previous industrial use at the • The river is hidden from view in many areas limiting the potential for sense of place. Burbury Brickworks which is now a Local Nature Reserve as well as ongoing industry and • There is only stepped access between the Grand Union Canal and the River Cole in a employment in large scale buildings and warehouses. The area includes Tyseley Energy southerly direction from the Canal. Park which aims to help shape the way the City of Birmingham develops infrastructure • A section of the river either side of the A41 Warwick Road is inaccessible. for renewable heat and power, energy storage, clean transport fuels in combination with advanced waste processing. The Grand Union Canal passes over the River Cole in this Action Opportunities that are specific or particularly relevant to this Action Zone are described Zone which also includes Ackers Adventure, a charity that provides access to adventure below: activities for the local community and others. • The river corridor can provide a green oasis within a grey context, it has been referred to as ‘The Lost World’. • Improve the connections and interfaces between the canal and the river to improve accessibility and wider pedestrian connectivity. • Encourage business investment and stewardship in the river environment for the benefit of employees as well as their own climate change or social responsibility agendas. • Provide surfaced routes in sections of the path network which limit accessibility during wet weather, for those on bikes, less steady on their feet, with pushchairs or in wheelchairs. • River enhancements to remove engineered features, improve habitat management and incorporate in-channel improvements.

24

0 500 1,000 m Action Zones

Action Zone 3: Formans Road to A45 Coventry Road

View north from Formans Road Riverside access south of Cole Valley Business Park Pedestrian link through Cole Valley Business Park

Debris in river south of Seeleys Road Weirs east of Ackers Adventure River in valley north of the Grand Union Canal

25 Action Zones

Action Zone 4: A45 Coventry Road to Packington Avenue Issues that are specific or particularly relevant to this Action Zone are described below: • A notable presence of littering and fly tipping throughout the area with some instances This area is characterised by large open green spaces around the River Cole with extensive of graffiti or vandalism. residential areas beyond, often overlooking the space. There are some areas of vegetation • Planting blocks have gone unmanaged and are not reaching their potential habitat/ along the river, though they limit direct views of the watercourse, with the surrounding aesthetic value. open green spaces providing spaces for sports pitches and some areas of rough grassland. • Lack of easily accessible connection along the river corridor past the railway line north In comparison to the Action Zones further south, the area feels more naturalistic and the of Recreation Ground. river begins to meander noticeably. Birmingham Heartlands Hospital and The Richmond • When not being used for sporting activities the spaces can feel open, exposed and Primary Care Medical Centre are situated in close proximity to the river to the west and east uninviting. respectively. There are also a number of schools near to the river, including Starbank School, • Whilst the large open space has a lot of potential, it can feel hidden in some areas St Bernadette’s Catholic Primary School, Waverley School, Blakesley Hall Primary School, behind incidental access points off residential streets. Stechford Primary School and Colebourne Primary School. Opportunities that are specific or particularly relevant to this Action Zone are described below: • Encourage community engagement and sense of ownership to reduce anti-social behaviour and encourage local maintenance such as litter picks. • Provide outdoor lessons, education, after school activities and safe walking routes for local schools and their pupils. • Facilitate use of the area for access to green space associated with health and wellbeing benefits such as health walks and social prescribing, working with local Hospitals and Medical Centres. • Improve circular connectivity of accessible routes through new river crossings and surfaced paths, creating routes for dog walkers and those wanting to undertake shorter walks. • Creation of gateway features and entrances to improve perception and encourage use by wider community. • Use of large open spaces for flood storage that can still be used for sports pitches and other open spaces in non-flood events.

26

0 500 1,000 m Action Zones

Action Zone 4: A45 Coventry Road to Packington Avenue

Information panel adjacent to A45 Coventry Road View towards River Cole from access off Heybarnes Road View of access off Heybarnes Road

Route along River Cole under railway viaduct Surfaced route east of A4040 River meanders south of Brook Meadow Road

27 Action Zones

Action Zone 5: Packington Avenue to Kingshurst Brook Issues that are specific or particularly relevant to this Action Zone are described below: • Whilst providing visual separation as a green corridor, the river itself is not readily The nature of the river corridor becomes increasingly naturalised here as landform, noticeable to the wider community. vegetation and distance combine to provide visual separation between the green space • Most circular routes through the area are relatively long. and surrounding urban areas, particularly between Packington Avenue and Babbs Mill • Good east-west connections but the River provides a barrier to north-south connectivity. Lake. Babbs Mill lake is a notable feature distinct from other waterbodies in the catchment • The history and value of the location is not immediately relevant for visitors. owing to its size, a circular walk around the lake provides visual amenity and its banks • Some blocks of vegetation would benefit from a management regime. provide a range of ecological habitats including reed beds. A range of heritage features are present including Babbs Mill Grade II Listed Building, the motte and bailey castle with later Opportunities that are specific or particularly relevant to this Action Zone are described moated site Scheduled Monument at Stonebridge Crescent and Yorks Wood Ancient and below: Semi-Natural Woodland. Some sections of the river channel are of good quality, presenting • Improve the interface between the river and Yorks Wood. meanders, gravels and a range of riparian vegetation. • Create marked trails and associated interpretation to encourage wider exploration and improve sense of place. • Encourage community engagement and sense of ownership to reduce anti-social • behaviour. • Enhance the quality of the river channel on approach to Kingshurst Brook. • Creation of flood storage areas. • Increase north-south connectivity and accessibility of some of the longer circular routes.

28

0 500 1,000 m Action Zones

Action Zone 5: Packington Avenue to Kingshurst Brook

View along access east of Lea Ford Road View south from surfaced route towards River Cole View from the south west corner of Babbs Mill Lake

Riverside vegetation and in-channel features Recreation ground south of Road View from pedestrian bridge north of Meriden Park

29 Action Zones

Action Zone 6: Kingshurst Brook to River Blythe

The eastern end of this Action Zone includes Meriden Park, whilst located outside of the watershed of the catchment it was felt important to include within this area due to its position alongside the River Cole and the environmental and social functions it provides. Meriden Park includes the remnants of Chelmsley Wood and has the Kingshurst Brook passing through it, providing a link south towards major employment and transport hubs around Birmingham International and the National Exhibition Centre. Around the river corridor the area is characterised by the presence of several major transport corridors including the M42, M6, A446, A452 and the proposed route of High Speed 2 and the HS2 Interchange Station - the first station outside of London which will be built next to the M42 and opposite the NEC. Between Meriden Park and Cole End Park the area around the river becomes agricultural in nature which is a unique feature in terms of this catchment.

Issues that are specific or particularly relevant to this Action Zone are described below: • Accessibility along the river is limited to sections along Meriden Park, Cole Bank Park Local Nature Reserve and Cole End Park. • Future impacts associated with HS2, particularly through the construction period. • Ongoing mineral extraction and associated impacts. • Lack of tranquillity due to presence of major transport infrastructure.

Opportunities that are specific or particularly relevant to this Action Zone are described below: • Potential for archaeological digs and finds through works associated with HS2 which can be used to enhance sense of place and interpretation of the area. • Environment-led restoration of mineral workings. • Creation of an accessible route along the river corridor between Meriden Park and Coleshill Parkway. • Improve interpretation/access at bridges across the river. • Enhancement of existing open spaces at Meriden Park and Cole End Park.

30

0 500 1,000 m Action Zones

Action Zone 6: Kingshurst Brook to River Blythe

View south across existing weir in Meriden Park Entrance to Cole Bank Park Local Nature Reserve View west along Birmingham Road

View across Cole End Park from pedestrian bridge Coleshill Bridge Scheduled Monument Pedestrian style east of Gorsey Lane

31 Opportunity Sites

Meriden Park

32 Cole Valley Catchment I Landscape Vision A37 Masterplan L38 A36 L33 Primary Objective Opportunity Sites P30 P31 L31 P32 k k k L32 Opportunity Sites are mapped as points (for opportunities associated A28 A29 with a specific location, labelled as Px), lines (for opportunities Opportunity Sites are defined parcels of land, lengths of river or specific points that are linear in nature, labelled as Lx) and areas (for opportunities Cole Valley Catchment A25 of the catchment around the River Cole within whichP22 a project or groups of covering a broad area, labelled as Ax). I P21 projects could be delivered. They have beenP20Landscape mapped as points VisionL23 (for opportunities A37 Refer to tables for a brief description of identified opportunities; k k L38 A36 associated with a specific location, labelledMasterplan as Px),k lines (for opportunities that A21 A27 Lead Stakeholder; Primary Objective; Capital Cost; Operational A23 A24 Cost; Ease of Delivery; and Time Horizon for each Site. are linear in nature, labelled as Lx) and areasL22 (for opportunities coveringP23 a broad P29 L33 Primary ObjectiveA17 P30 area, labelled as Ax) and form theP19 basis for the secondA16 part of the masterplan.k P31 P18 L20 P24 L31 P32 k L21 L26 A26 L30 k k L32 L39 A22 k A29 Opportunityk Sites are mapped as points (forL24 opportunities associated k A28 with a specific location, labelled as Px), lines (for opportunities P26 P27 A range of OpportunityP16 Sites have been identifiedthat are linear in nature,within labelled the as Lx) andcatchment. areas (for opportunities For A25 k A18 P22 covering a broad area, labelled as Ax). L25 A20 P21 L27 A30 each Site a number of attributesk have been defined to guide futureP25 project P20 L23 L18 L36 Refer to tables for a brief description of identified opportunities; A31 k k k k P28 k A38 A21 A27 development, alongside a brief descriptionLead of Stakeholder; the opportunity Primary Objective; Capital at Cost;each Operational Site,k A23 A24 P17 Cost; Ease of Delivery; and Time Horizon for each Site. L22 P23 P29 L37 P19 A16 A39A17 k informed by stakeholders requirements for future funding bids and investment P18 L20 L21 k P24 L28 L26 L30 L39 A26 A22 k P15 k k L29 L24 k decisions. The attributes have been used to develop a series of masterplan P16 P26 P27 A18 L17 k A19 L25 L27 A20 k k P25 A30 L18 L36 A31k k outputs. Extracts are presented hereA32 and on the following page, with full plans k P28 A38 L19 P17 L37 kA39 L28 presented in L35Appendix B alongside the associated details for identified sites. P15 k L29 L17 A19 L16 k A32 L19 P14 L35 A15 L16 Priority Objective Masterplan:k P14 A15 k L15 A14 L15 A14 P11 P11 P12 P12 L14 k Legend L14 P13 L13 k k Legend River Cole Catchment P13 k A13 L13 L34 HS2 Phase 1 Act Limit k L12 A12 River Cole Catchment L11 P10 L10 HS2 Phase 1 Centreline k A13 P8 P9 k A9 L34 L12 P6 P7 L8 HS2 Phase 1 ActPrimary Limit Objective A12 k k P5 k Accessibility P10 L11 A11 HS2 Phase 1 Centreline L10 L3 k Biodiversity P8 P9 L7 k P4 Flood Defence P6 A9 L9 A8 Primary Objective P7 L8 k L6 Health and Wellbeing L4 A10 k k P3 Accessibility Interpretation P5 L5 k A11 P2 k Sense of Place kA7 Biodiversity L3 k A33 0 500 1,000 m Water Quality L7 A5 A6 P4 Flood Defence Wayfinding A8 L1 L9 P1 A3 k L6 Health and Wellbeing L4 A10 P0 L0 A2k P3 Interpretation L2 kA4 L5 A35 A34 P2 k A1 Sense of Place kA7 A0 A33 0 500 1,000 m Water Quality A5 A6 Wayfinding L1 August 2019 P1 A3

P0 L0 A2k

L2 kA4 A35 A34 A1 33 A0

August 2019 Cole Valley Catchment I Landscape Vision A37 Masterplan L38 A36 L33 Time Horizon P30 P31 L31 P32 k k k L32 Opportunity Sites are mapped as points (for opportunities associated A28 A29 with a specific location, labelled as Px), lines (for opportunities A25 that are linear in nature, labelled as Lx) and areas (for opportunities P22 covering a broad area, labelled as Ax). P21 P20 L23 Refer to tables for a brief description of identified opportunities; k k k A21 A27 Lead Stakeholder; Primary Objective; Capital Cost; Operational A23 A24 Cost; Ease of Delivery; and Time Horizon for each Site. L22 P23 P29 P19 A16 A17 k P18 L20 L21 P24 L26 L30 L39 A26 A22 k k L24 k P16 P26 P27 A18 k L25 L27 A20 k P25 A30 Cole Valley Catchment L18 L36 A31k k k P28 A38 I P17 L37 kA39 L28 A37 Landscape Vision P15 k L29 L17 A19 L38 A36 k A32 Masterplan L19 L35 L16 L33 P30 Capital Cost P14 A15 P31 k L31 P32 k k k L32 L15 A14 A29 Opportunity Sites are mapped as points (for opportunitiesP11 associated A28 with a specific location, labelled as Px), lines (for opportunities P12 A25 that are linear in nature, labelled as Lx) and areas (for opportunities P22 covering a broad area, labelled as Ax). L14 k P13 P21 L13 k P20 L23 Refer to tables for a brief description of identified opportunities; k k k A13 A21 A27 Lead Stakeholder; Primary Objective; Capital Cost; Operational k A23 L34 L12 A24 Cost; Ease of Delivery; and Time Horizon for each Site. A12 L22 P23 P29 Cole Valley Catchment Cole Valley CatchmentP10 L11 I IP19 A16 A17 k L10 L20 P24 Landscape Vision Landscape Vision P8 P9 A37 P18 A37 L21 L26 A26 L30 k L38 L38 k A36 A9 A36 k k L39 A22 Masterplan Masterplan P6 P7 L8 L24 P26 P27 L33 L33 P16 A18 Time Horizon Capital Cost P30 k k P30 k L25 A20 P5 P31 P31 L27 A30 Legend L31 P32 k L31 P32 k k P25 k kk L32 k kL18L32 L36 Opportunity Sites are mapped as points (for opportunities associated Opportunity Sites are mapped as points (for opportunities associated A28 A29 A11 A28 A29 A31k k P28 with a specific location, labelled as Px), lines (for opportunities with a specific location, labelled as Px), lines (for opportunities A38 Cole Valley Catchment A25 A25 River Cole Catchment that are linear in nature, labelled as Lx) and areas (for opportunities that are linear in nature, labelled as Lx) and areas (for opportunities k k P22 L3 P22 covering a broad area, labelled as Ax). covering a broad area, labelled as Ax). P21 P21 P17 P20 L23k L7 P20 L23k I A39 Refer to tables for a brief description of identified opportunities; Refer to tablesk for a brief description of identified opportunities; k L37 k A21 A27 k A21 A27 k Lead Stakeholder; Primary Objective; Capital Cost; Operational Lead Stakeholder; Primary Objective; Capital Cost; Operational P4 A23 A23 L28 HS2 Phase 1 Act Limit Cole L22ValleyP23 CatchmentA24 L22 P23 A24 Cost; Ease of Delivery; and Time Horizon for each Site. Cost; Ease of Delivery; and Time Horizon for each Site. P29 L9 A8 P29 L29 P19 A16 A17 k P19 A16 A17 k P15 k P24 P24 A37 Landscape Vision P18 L20 L21 L26 A26 P18 L30L20 L21 L26 A26 L30 L39 A22 k L6 L39 A22 k L17 I k L24 k k k L24 k A19 P16 P26 P27 A18 P16 P26 P27 A18 k HS2 Phase 1 Centreline k L25 L27 A20 k L25 L27 A20 k P25 A30 kL4 A10P25 A30 A32 L18 L36 A31k k L18 L36 A31k k L38 A36 k P3P28 A38 k P28 A38 A37 LandscapeP17 Vision P17 L19 L37 kA39 L28 L37 kA39 L28 Time Horizon Masterplan Cole Valley Catchment P15 k Cole Valley Catchment L29 P15 k L5 L29 L35 kL17 A19 kL17 A19 L38 A32 OpportunityI P2 Sites A32 I A36 L19 L19 L16 Landscape Vision L35 Landscape VisionA37 L35 k A37 Short L16 L16 L33 MasterplanL38 A36 kA7 L38 A36 Masterplan P14 A15 Masterplan P14 A15 P14 0 500 1,000 m k Time Horizon k Capital P30Cost A15 Medium Lead Stakeholder A33 L33 MasterplanL33 extract: Masterplan extract: L15 A14 P30 L15 A14 P30 Lead Stakeholder P11 Ease of Delivery P11 A6 k L33 P31 A5 P31 P31 P12 P32 P12 P32 L14 L31 k L14 P32 L31 k k k k L32 k k k L32 P30 Long P13 A29 P13 L31 k A29 Ease ofOpportunity Delivery Sites are mapped as points (for opportunities associated Opportunity Sites are mapped as points (for opportunities associated L13 k A28 L13 k L15A28 A14 with a specific location, labelled as Px), lines (for opportunities with a specific location, labelled as Px), lines (for opportunities k A13 k A13 k kA25 L32 that areA25 linear in nature, labelled as Lx) and areas (for opportunities P31 that are linear in nature, labelled as Lx) and areas (for opportunities P22 L34 L34 L1 P22 covering a broad area, labelled as Ax). L12 A12 covering a broad area, labelled as Ax). L12 A12 P11 Opportunity Sites are mapped as points (for opportunities associated P21 P1 P21 A29 P32 L11 L11 A3 P20 A28 P20P10 L10L23 P10 L10 L23 L31 k k Refer to tables for a brief description of identified opportunities; k Refer to tables for a brief description of identified opportunities; P8 P9 k A21 P8 P9 k A21 A27 k k A9 LeadA27 Stakeholder; Primary Objective; Capital Cost; Operationalk A9 k P12 A23 with a specific location, labelled as Px), lines (for opportunities Lead Stakeholder; Primary Objective; Capital Cost; Operational P6 P7 L8 A23 A24 P6 P7 L8 A24 k k L32 Cost; Ease of Delivery; and Time Horizon for each Site. L22 k P23 P29 Cost; Ease of Delivery; and Time Horizon for each Site. k L22 P23 P29 P19 A16 P5 A17k k P5 k k P19 LegendA16 A17 k L14 Legend that are linear in nature, labelled as Lx) and areas (for opportunities k P24 k Opportunity Sites are mapped as points (for opportunitiesP0k L0 associated P24A25 k A29 P18 L20 L21 A11 L26 A26 L30 A11 P18 L20 L21 L26 A26 L30 A28 L39 A22 k A2k River Cole Catchment L39 A22 k River Cole Catchment k L3 P22L24k k L3 k k L24 k L7 P26 P27 L7 P16 P26 P27 P13 covering a broad area, labelled as Ax). P16 P4 with a specificA18 location, labelled as Px),P4 lines (for opportunities k A18 L13 k A8 L25 L27 A20 A8 HS2 Phase 1 Act Limit L25 L27 A20 k HS2 Phase 1 Act Limit k L9P25 A30 L9 k P25 A30 L18 L36 L6P21 A31k L6 L18 L36 A31k k P28 k that arek linearP28 in nature,A38 labelled as Lx) and areask (for opportunities HS2 Phase 1 Centreline k A38 HS2 Phase 1 Centreline A25 L4 kA10 L4 A10 P17 P17 P20P3 L23 P3 k A39 L37 kA39 L28 L37 Time Horizon k k L28A13 Capital CostP22 L5 k L29 L5 L2 A4 L29 Refer to tables for a brief description of identified opportunities; P15 k P2 coveringk a broad area, labelled as Ax). P2 P15 k L17 k A19 k L17 A21Short L34 A19 Low k A7 k A7 k A27 A32 k kA34 0 500 1,000 m A32 L12 0 500 1,000 m P21 Lead Stakeholder; Primary Objective; Capital Cost; Operational L19 A33 A35 A33 L19 Medium A23 A12 P20 Medium L35 A5 A6 A5 A6 L35 A24 L23 L22 P23 L16A1 Long High Cost; Ease of Delivery; and Time Horizon for each Site. L16 Refer to tables for a brief description of identified opportunities; P10 P29 L11 k k A21 P14 L1 L1 P14 A27 A15 P1 A3 A17 Lead StakeholderP1 A3 A15 L10Ease of Delivery k P19k A16 Lead Stakeholder; Primaryk Objective; Capital Cost; Operationalk P8 P9 A23 P0 L0 A2k MasterplanP0 extract:L0 A2k Masterplan extract: A24 P18 L20L15 A14 P24 A0 L15 A14 k A9 L22 P23 P11 L21 Cost; Ease of Delivery; and Time Horizon for each Site.P11 L26 A26P6 L30 P29 P12 L2 kA4 L2 kA4 P12 P7 L8 k L39 L14 A22 L14 k A35 A34k k A35 A34 k A16 A17 L24 P13 P19 k P13 L13 k A1 P26 P27 A1 L13 k k k L20 P24 P16 k A13 A0 A0 A18k A13 P5 P18 L21 L26 L30 Legend k L34 A26 L34 L12 L12 A20 k A12 L25 A12 L27 k L39 A22 L11 P10 L11 A30 k k P10 L10 k Legend L10 A11 L24 P8 P9 P25 P8 P9 k L18A9 L36 k A9 P26 P27 River Cole Catchment P6 P7 L8 RiverA31k Cole CatchmentP6 P7 L8 k P28 L3 k P16 A18 k k August 2019 August 2019 k k A38 k Legend L25 A20 P5 k k HS2 Phase 1 Act LimitP5 L7 L27 k k A11 A30 P17 A11 River Cole Catchment L3 k HS2 Phase 1 CentrelineL3 k P4 k P25 HS2 Phase 1 Act Limit L7 August 2019 L7 A39 A8L18 L36 P4 L37 P4 k L9 HS2 Phase 1 Act Limit A31k k P28 L9 A8 Lead Stakeholder L9 A8 L28 A38 k L6 k L6 HS2 Phase 1 Centreline k A10 A10 L29 L6 P15 L4 k P3 L4 k P3 P17 Ease of Delivery HS2 Phase 1 Centreline L5 Environment Agency L5 A39 P2 L17 P2 L4 A10 L37 k k North Warwickshire Boroughk Council A19 Easy L28 kA7 k kA7 P3 A32 0 500 1,000 m 0 500 1,000 m Medium L29 A33 Severn Trent A33 P15 k A5 A6 A5 A6 Capital Cost L19 Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council L5 L17 Hard L1 L1 A19 P1 P1 A3 P2 k L35 A3 k A32 Low L0 P0 L0 L16A2k P0 A2k kA7 L19 k k 0 500 1,000 m L2 A4 L2 A4 L35 A33 Medium A35 A34 A35 A34 P14 A1 A1 A15 A5 A6 L16 34 A0 k A0 High P14 L1 A15 L15 A14 P1 August 2019P11 August 2019 A3 k P12 P0 L0 L15 A14 L14 k P11A2k P13 L13 k P12 L2 kA4L14 k k A13 A35 A34P13 L13 k L34 L12 A1 A12 k A13 L11 P10 L10 L34 L12A0 Legend P8 P9k A12 A9 L11 P6 P7 L8 P10 L10 River Cole Catchment P8 P9 k k k A9 P5 P6 P7 L8 HS2 Phase 1 Act Limit k A11 L3 k P5 k k HS2 Phase 1 Centreline Legend L7 August 2019 k P4 A11 L9 A8 L3 k Lead Stakeholder River Cole Catchment L6 L7 k P4 Birmingham City Council HS2 Phase 1 Act Limit A10 L9 A8 P3 L4 k L6 Environment Agency HS2 Phase 1 Centreline L5 A10 P2 P3 L4 k North Warwickshire Borough Council Ease of Delivery A7 L5 k 0 500 1,000 m A33 P2 k Severn Trent Easy A5 A6 kA7 A33 Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council 0 500 1,000 m Medium L1 A5 A6 P1 A3 Hard L1 P0 L0 A2k P1 A3 P0 L0 A2k L2 kA4 A35 A34 A1 L2 kA4 A35 A34 A0 A1 A0

August 2019 August 2019 Case Study Site Proposals

View north towards Meriden Park weir

35 Case StudyIntroduction Site toProposals focus sites

Case Study Site proposalsWithin this report have a selection been produced of parks and publicat a conceptual open spaces have level been of identifi detail ed based for improvement on in line with the River Cole Vision. These Parks include: initial site visits and reflections from the Steering Group. They demonstrate how the Vision, Strategic Objectives• Cole and End Masterplan Park; can be achieved on the ground. Engagement was undertaken with• stakeholdersGlebe Farm Recreational on three Ground; Case and Study Sites as agreed with the Steering Group, one for each of the• Meridenlocal authority Park areas. Cole End Park Case Study Sites Followingwere selected a number ofon site the visits basis to these of locations, having: attended by representatives from North Warwickshire • Good ease orBorough prospect Council, of Thedelivery. Environment Agency, WKWT, Warwickshire County Highways and Atkins, this report has been compiled to provide focus on proposed interventions within the parks and public open • Local stakeholderspaces. The support. interventions proposed aim to be the most appropriate/valuable, in line with the objectives • Identified fundingoutlined in route. the River Cole Vision objectives and masterplan. Guidance is also provided which describes Glebe Farm the cost of such interventions to inform prioritisation and implementation feasibility. • Having visible local impact. Recreation Ground

The initial assessments for identifying potential improvements were carried out in 2012 on behalf of The proposals presentNorth Warwickshire an initial Boroughview on Council, how the and somesite could of the suggestionsbe delivered, have sincehowever been implemented. they would need to goOther through proposed a full improvements, design process along with and recent further suggestions, analysis, formed consultation the topics of and conversation during further site visits. development prior to implementation. Meriden Park These sites fall within the vision masterplans of : The following Case Study Sites have been selected and the proposals are summarised over the following pages,• Cole with End furtherPark: detail, analysis and indicative cost estimates in Appendix C: • Glebe Farm Recreation Ground (within Action Zone 4) River Cole • Meriden Park (withinAction Zone Action 6: Country Zone River, 5) Kingshurst Brook to River Blythe. • Cole End Park (within Action Zone 6)

• Glebe Farm Recreational Ground:

Action Zone 4: Community River, A45 Coventry Road to Packington Avenue.

• Meriden Park:

Action Zone 5: Rure in Urbs, Packinghurst Avenue to Kingshurst Brook.

3

36 Case Study Site Proposals

Glebe Farm Recreation Ground Opportunities and proposed interventions: • Hard paved loop around the park, connecting all the access points and play area This Case Study Site is located within Action Zone 4: A45 Coventry Road to Packington (accessibility, cycling, walking). Avenue, key constraints within the Case Study Site include: • Rubbish bins at every access point and play area. • Litter and fly-tipping. • New pedestrian river crossing. • Dog waste. • Seating along the main path and few picnic tables. • Accessibility and movement (grass paths only, one river crossing). • Introducing additional tree and shrub planting areas and wildflower meadows suitable • Lack of appropriate maintenance in certain locations. for local condition. • Evidence of Japanese Knotweed found on site. • Creating information boards about local fauna and flora, nature trails etc. (could be done as a community project). • Transforming local woodland in the east side into nature trail/woodland play area (community project). • Close cut grass - potential for different mowing regime/introduction of suitable meadow species to encourage biodiversity and pedestrian routes. • Creation of flood storage areas

0 100 200 m

37

0 100 200 m Case Study Site Proposals

New footbridge over river to Glebe Farm Recreation Ground connect the north and south sides of the recreational Proposed masterplan grounds. Information boards about local flora, nature trails, etc.

Proposed planting areas and wild- Mowing regime change for a flower meadows suitable for local mow path. condition. Wider connection along River Cole.

New hard paved footpath around the park connecting all the access points and play area, and creating a circular path for walking and cycling.

Wider connection along Potential flood River Cole. storage areas

Proposed location for natural play area; implement nature trails into the existing woodland in the east side area of the park.

Information boards about local flora, nature trails, etc.

Key Proposed location of information boards

This site falls within a catchment wide issue to address Existing access retained invasive species, specific locations or treatments have not been mapped or included within costings. 50 150 350 m N

C10

38 Case Study Site Proposals

Glebe Farm Recreation Ground

These visualisations show opportunities to improve seasonal interest and biodiversity at the Recreation Ground, as well as offering more accessible routes to enjoy new features.

39 Case Study Site Proposals

Meriden Park Tennis Courts: • Used by community This Case Study Site is located on the boundary between Action Zone 5: Packington Avenue • Needs resurfacing to Kingshurst Brook and Action Zone 6: Kingshurst Brook to River Blythe. Key constraints and • Needs better fence/gate opportunities within the Case Study Site are described below. • Poor signage • Poor access for all abilities Main Entrance and Car Park Area: • Signage could be improved Bowling Green: • Unwelcoming • Not currently utilised as a green • No footpath access • Good existing perimeter hedge • Limited spaces • Potential for use as new building site or site for enclosed outdoor cinema • Cluttered appearance • Inconsistent surfacing Play Facilities/Open Space: • Some attractive trees • Good variety of play provision • Level changes across areas • Open spaces are well managed • Seemingly disparate buildings • Large open space utilised for annual events

Woodland: • Good quality woodland area • Potential for all ability access through woodland • Continued and enhanced management recommended • More signage on history of wood and biodiversity

Island: • Good quality woodland area • Enhanced management recommended • Potential for use as forest school/bird watching environment • Recommend securable access to prevent unwanted out of hours access

Non specific interventions: • Potential for some improved connections from SW through the woodland area. • Signage for available facilities and routes through the park could be improved • Potential for interpretation boards across site to highlight habitats, history of area and connection to rest of Cole Valley 0 50 100 m • Potential to create traffic free circular routes around park with footbridges over river • Potential to create pond dipping platforms along new lake edge and river edges

40

0 50 100 m Case Study Site Proposals

Meriden Park Wider connection along River Cole. Proposed masterplan

New footbridge over stream to support vehicle free circulation walk. New bridge for access to island. Information boards about local flora, nature trails, etc.

Potential connection to Manage woodland and Coleshill along River Cole. island, Improve bird hide features. Provide forest school environments. Discuss with current owners how to integrate facility into Hub building - or retain ex building. Proposed planting areas and wild-flower meadows suitable for local condition.

Vehicle in/out access with footpaths into park.

Formalise car park - increase parking provision.

Pond dipping platform. New Hub Building - facility management , cafe, bike hire, information community services.

New footbridge supports vehicle free circulation Retain and enhance tennis route. courts fencing and surfacing.

Information boards about local flora, nature trails, etc. Key Proposed location of information boards Connection towards /NEC Existing access retained N 50 150 350 m

41 Case Study Site Proposals

Meriden Park

Proposed masterplan

These visualisations show opportunities to create an accessible woodland walk, more direct access to the waters edge and a community hub with cafe.

42 Case Study Site Proposals

Cole End Park

This Case Study Site is located within Action Zone 6: Kingshurst Brook to River Blythe. Key constraints and opportunities within the Case Study Site include: • Close cut grass - potential for different mowing regime to encourage biodiversity and pedestrian routes • Raised earthwork - potentially river gravels from earlier river canalisation - could be used to create riffles and other features on river bed • High banks and vertical sides, bank profiles could be re-naturalised to provide improved habitat and flow structure • Established footpaths • Culverts without flow in to river (two collapsed/blocked) • Potential for additional onsite parking subject to services search • Bridge (pedestrian) requires updating. Too narrow for two people to pass. • Silt build up here over time due to flooding, this could remedied and managed to improve aesthetic and better protect receptors such as aquatic life. • Arches underneath the swere pipe culvert provide permeability but poor headroom, opportunity to increase headroom under arches by lowering ground level. • Play area - conventional equipment on low impact surface, opportunity for refurbished and new play equipment to cater for wider age range as well as natural play features.

0 50 100 m

43

0 50 100 m Case Study Site Proposals

This site falls within a catchment wide issue to address invasive species, Cole End Park specific locations or treatments have not been mapped or included within costings. River bed features (gravel, woody debris, low flow Proposed masterplan channels) proposed in a number of locations Mowing regime change mow paths - leave areas long Potential for new on-site to encourage biodiversity. parking area.

New pathway to create vehicle free Proposed cycle stands. circulation walk opportunity to create new cycle connections along the River Cole. Information boards about Potential connection to Meriden local flora, nature trails, etc. Park along River Cole.

Regrade channel, introduce washed river gravels and in-channel features to create low flow channel. Potential connection to Coleshill Parkway along Lowered river bank, to River Cole. encourage biodiversity, re-route footpath around lowered river banks.

New contemporary bridge improve visual impact and character to the park. Re-route footpath around lowered river bank.

Information boards about local flora, nature trails, etc. Information boards about local flora, nature trails, etc. Lower ground to increase head room through arches.

Key Proposed location of information boards

Proposed natural play areas. Existing access retained Lower ground to increase head room through arches 50 150 m N

C36

44 Case Study Site Proposals

Cole End Park

This visualisation expresses the opportunity for a replacement pedestrian footbridge and improvements to river bank profiles in order to encourage both biodiversity and access to the waters edge.

45 Next Steps

River Cole through Glebe Farm Recreation Ground

46 Next Steps

The next steps for the project are to share and communicate the Vision, Strategic Objectives Fund and Masterplan to a wider audience, identify funding mechanisms and deliver physical Utilise the masterplan and Case Study Site Proposals to identify funding streams and improvements or activity on the ground. potential application routes associated with single or multiple aspects of the vision across flood risk, accessibility, health and wellbeing, biodiversity, heritage, interpretation and Communicate others. Whilst the project has been developed with the support and guidance from a wide range of organisations, it will be important to communicate more broadly within those organisations, Explore the potential for grants match-funding across organisations to deliver projects that to other organisations outside the Steering Group and to local communities. could not be delivered or funded individually.

A public-facing website, newsletter or equivalent should be created to share information Prepare or encourage funding applications to appropriate funds, for example the National on the project and progress of initiatives focused on the River Cole catchment from all Lottery, HS2 Community and Environment Fund and Business and Local Economy Funds. stakeholders. Embed the opportunities for delivery of the Vision in local authority Community Organisations should be encouraged to share the Vision as widely as possible, to capture Infrastructure Levy or Section 106 initiatives. emerging opportunities for collaboration and to embed the Vision within the organisation. In addition, specific webpages on stakeholder websites would help to highlight the support Promote the Vision to private developers or businesses to encourage biodiversity offsetting of the stakeholder for the initiative and link to a River Cole catchment specific website. or contribution to initiatives.

Continue to work closely with Steering Group organisations to align the Vision with ongoing Identify an appropriate organisation to take ownership of catchment wide initiatives in initiatives including: order to collate funding from multiple agencies to facilitate delivery of initiatives such as the • HS2 and associated works, HS2 green corridor. suggested Ranger Service. • 25 YEP (Government bodies). • Natural Capital Investment Plan (WMCA). Deliver • Green Spaces Strategies (Local Authorities). Develop delivery plans for each of the Case Study Site Proposals to work through design, • Urban Centres Framework (BCC). funding, permissions and implementation. Early delivery on the ground will create a visible • Severn Trent Asset Management Programme. manifestation of the Vision, encouraging further delivery and engagement. • Capital works to sewage infrastructure. • Biodiversity improvement metrics Develop catchment-wide design guide for branding, signage, materials and street • Catchment Connect furniture Where projects are undertaken by stakeholders within the catchment, consider opportunities for other benefits to be delivered concurrently.

Explore the potential for a range of delivery mechanisms including use of community groups and HS2 contractors.

47 Ian Lanchbury CMLI Atkins, The Axis, 10 Holiday Street, Birmingham, B1 1TF [email protected] 0121 483 5000 Supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund