A CAMPAIGN has been launched to preserve and enhance a Scheduled Ancient Monument hidden away on a Redditch housing estate.
Moons Moat is the site of a 13th century moated manor house just off Church Hill Way.
It’s designation as an Ancient Monument puts it on the same level as Stone Henge although local historians Derek Coombes and Phil Mitchell are clear that’s where the similarity ends.
“Not a lot is known about the site. Some say the word ‘Moon’ related to the old settlement being crescent shaped while others say it is named after a man called ‘Moon’, but we just don’t know,” said Derek.
What is known is that Redditch New Town has a piece of medieval history at its heart, a site which has received national recognition, and which campaigners, with help from agencies such as Redditch Borough Council, Historic England, Church Hill Big Local and more, want to restore to pristine condition.
An archaeological dig in the 1960s, with help from students from Bridley Moor High School, found a coin, the hilt of a sword and tiles from Bordesley Abbey before they filled the site in again to preserve it.
A Moons Moat Conservation Group has now been formed and a ten-year plan agreed, while the borough council has agreed to maintain the site. However, money is tight and much work needs to be done on the overgrown area.
“The aim is to cut back the trees and undergrowth without disturbing the ecology but I think the hardest part will be de-silting the site,” said Derek, acting chair of the group.
“But unless we make people aware of this site and make it somewhere that will draw people in, say with information boards and events, then it will undoubtedly suffer,” added Phil.
“We’re hoping to create interest and hopefully find a local company who can sponsor the work – it’s an opportunity which can benefit them and raise awareness of just what we have here.”
The group also wants to promote the site for health walks, skills days, wildlife workshops and school activities.
Anyone who can help, either as a volunteer or through sponsorship, can call Derek on 01527 404365, email [email protected] or Phil on 07887 692348 or [email protected]. For more information, visit www.moonsmoat conservation.info
