The 40-year-old building, which is ideally located next to the children’s play area, officially re-opened to residents and sports teams this weekend following its refurbishment.

Works were carried out to improve the shower and changing facilities, refurbish the toilets, which includes the provision of a new accessible toilet and baby change facility, replace the kitchen, and revitalise the public and office spaces.

The kitchen and café area, which is run by the Friends of Birchwood Forest Park group, has benefited from a full refurbishment and is open every weekend, serving up a range of homemade treats, hot drinks and refreshments.

The shower and changing facilities had deteriorated to the point where they were no longer fit for purpose and had very little usage, but they now comply with Football Association (FA) guidelines and will be a welcome asset for local football teams to host their home fixtures.

Work began in February 2020 but was delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic. The project has now been completed and was officially re-opened by Council Leader, Cllr Russ Bowden, and cabinet member for leisure and community, Cllr Tony Higgins, on Saturday 23 October.

Cllr Higgins said: “We are delighted that we could support the refurbishment of the ranger centre and café which is much-loved by residents in Birchwood. The improvements made have helped to make the facilities accessible for all and will benefit the community and local sports teams.

“The centre is now an ideal location for events and the community-led café is a fantastic asset. I would urge everyone to wrap up and come along to take advantage of the delicious homemade cakes on offer and warm up with a hot drink – there’s also treats for your four-legged friends to enjoy!

“A big thank you must go to the Ranger Service, Volunteers, and the Friends of Birchwood Forest Park Group who work so hard to ensure the park and the newly-refurbished building are a welcoming environment for the local community.”

For more information about Birchwood Forest Park and the work of the Friends group, visit the Friends of Birchwood Forest Park Facebook page.