Blakenhall facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Blakenhall |
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 Blakenhall
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| Population | 12,614 (2021) |
| OS grid reference | SO910966 |
| Metropolitan borough | |
| Metropolitan county | |
| Region | |
| Country | England |
| Sovereign state | United Kingdom |
| Post town | Wolverhampton |
| Postcode district | WV2 |
| Dialling code | 01902 |
| Police | West Midlands |
| Fire | West Midlands |
| Ambulance | West Midlands |
| EU Parliament | West Midlands |
| UK Parliament |
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Blakenhall is a lively area and a 'ward' (like a local district) in the city of Wolverhampton, England. In 2021, about 12,614 people lived here. It's known for its interesting history and diverse community.
Contents
Blakenhall's Story: From Old English to Today
The name Blakenhall comes from old words. "Blæc" meant "black" and "halh" meant "nook" or "corner." So, it means "black corner."
Early Days and Famous Football
Blakenhall grew a lot in the late 1800s. Many terraced houses were built. Some of these houses had shops on the ground floor. These homes were mostly along Dudley Road.
Did you know Blakenhall has a link to football history? Wanderers Avenue was the first home of Wolverhampton Wanderers FC. The team played nearby at Phoenix Park until 1889. You can even find names of old players on the front of houses there!
Homes and Factories
In 1902, Blakenhall saw Wolverhampton's first council houses. These were homes built by the local council. Later, in 1988, these older homes were taken down.
A company called AJS made vehicles here. They moved to a new factory in 1914. This factory closed in 1931. Today, supermarkets stand on that spot. A cool sculpture called The Lone Rider marks the area. It reminds everyone of the old factory.
Community Spirit and Modern Changes
In 1960, the 1st Blakenhall Scout Group started. It was formed by Maurice Lane. This group is still active today! It welcomes both boys and girls aged 6–14. They meet at St. Johns Methodist Church.
In the 1960s, Blakenhall also got new buildings. Six tall tower blocks were built. Over the years, these blocks have been taken down. The last one, Phoenix Rise, was demolished in 2011.
Who Lives in Blakenhall?
Faith in Blakenhall (2021) Sikhism (40.7%) Christianity (24.3%) No religion (12.2%) Hinduism (10.4%) Islam (4.3%) Buddhism (0.4%) Other Religions (3.3%) Religion not Stated (4.4%)
Blakenhall is a very diverse place. Many residents are descendants of people from India. They settled here after World War II. In fact, 45.6% of the people here are of Indian ethnicity.
Faith and Community
The local Gurdwara (a Sikh temple) is very important. It's built where an old drinks factory used to be. Some say it's one of the biggest Gurdwaras in Europe!
According to the 2021 census, many different faiths are present. About 40.7% of people are Sikh. Around 24.3% are Christian. There are also many people who are not religious. Others follow Hindu, Muslim, or Buddhist faiths.
Schools and Local Improvements
Blakenhall is home to Colton Hills Community School. The senior part of The Royal School, Wolverhampton is also here.
Blakenhall has been working to improve its community. It's part of a special regeneration area. This has helped make the area better since the 1990s.
A new place called the Blakenhall Community and Healthy Living Centre opened in 2010. It's run by Wolverhampton City Council. This center helps people in the community stay healthy and connected.
Images for kids
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Terraced shops on Dudley Road, Blakenhall
