Sandwell Council has launched an appeal for pre-Second World War photographs of West Smethwick Park.

The park’s £5.1 million National Lottery Heritage Fund supported transformation includes the construction of a new pavilion, the refurbishment of monuments and gates and nature conservation improvements.

To ensure this work is as historically accurate as possible, architects are looking for any photographs taken before 1939, in particular any photos that show the original gates on Victoria Road. This will help ensure the reproductions are in keeping with the original design. Councillor Maria Crompton, deputy leader of Sandwell Council, said:

“Sandwell’s historic parks continue to be a vital part of our community. The photo appeal is a great way for residents to get involved and share part of the area’s proud history, as well as helping the restoration stay in keeping with the park's Victorian heritage.”

It's important that any photos sent in include information on where in the park they were taken, what year and, if there are people in the photo, there is consent from them or their families for it to be published, as the photos may be published on the internet or become part of a planned ‘then and now’ centenary celebration booklet.

Photographs can be emailed or posted to 'Then & Now, Parks and Green Spaces, Sandwell Council Operations & Development Centre, Direct 2 Industrial Park, Roway Lane, Oldbury, West Midlands, B69 3ES'.

The park restoration project is being funded thanks to players of The National Lottery via a £4.5million grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and through additional funding from Sandwell Council.