Black Country’s history puts it on global map
THE Black Country has been hailed as geographically and culturally important as Brazil, Canada and Tanzania after it netted a prestigious global honour. The area has been awarded the world-famous UNESCO Global Geoparks status. It means 40 sites – including Wren’s Nest National Nature Reserve – are now recognised as internationally important and will be protected.
The status recognises the world-class natural and cultural features in the heavily industrialised area and how ‘they came to tell the story of the landscape and the people that live within it’.
In the case of the Black Country, the significant part it played in the Industrial Revolution has been at the heart of the bid.
The so-called geosites include Dudley and Wolverhampton Museums, Wrens Nest National Nature Reserve, Sandwell Valley, Red House Glass Cone, Bantock Park and Walsall Arboretum.
Ambassador Matthew Lodge, UK Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, Foreign and Commonwealth
Office said: “With geology stretching back 428 million years, and a landscape and heritage that shaped the modern world during the industrial revolution, it is right that the Black Country is given this prestigious UN status.
“The announcement ensures that this remarkable site will continue to inspire the million people who call the landscape home, as well as local and international visitors in the years to come.”
Tony Juniper, chair of Natural England, said: “This is a landmark achievement which recognises the internationally rich geology and cultural heritage of the Black Country.
“The move will benefit the environment and boost tourism, as well as providing more people with the opportunity to connect with the natural world.”