AN HISTORIC Halesowen footpath, which pre-dates the Battle of Hastings, is set to be restored to its former glory.

The Holloway was originally a livestock drivers' route between Birmingham and the Welsh Marshes and deep cutting is still evident in the path.

The original path underwent an initial restoration phase in 1987 by the Halesowen Abbey Trust, with further work being undertaken in 1993.

The Holloway is has been referred to as the original Mucklow Hill and the path still has the marks from livestock passing through hundreds of years ago.

Councillor Hilary Bills, cabinet member for environmental services, is delighted the restoration will improve the historic path, which is listed by Dudley Council.

She said: “Restoring the paths to their former glory is an area of great importance for the friends group; they have worked so hard previously to maintain the area.

“The area is a key historic part of Halesowen and it is great to see members of the community wanting to maintain and improve it for both themselves and the borough.”

The Coombeswood Wedge includes 100 acres of land near Mucklow Hill and has several areas of scientific interest as well as habitats which support a number of red status listed butterflies, moths and birds.

The area is also known to have visiting foxes and badgers, and supports a healthy population of smaller mammals such as bank and field vole amongst others.

As well as The Holloway several of the hedgerows and woodlands date back over 1,000 years and the friends group was established to protect the wedge.

Sue Yeadon, member of Friends of Coombeswood Wedge, said: “The progression in restoration of the pathways at Pottery Farm will be a lovely addition to what already is a picturesque setting.

“We hope that the natural steps that will be created will ensure sustainability for the future, as well as helping the path to become more accessible.”