Merry Hill

Question 1

Characteristics

Answer 1

2 levels

210 shops - student discounts at Topshop, RI, New Look

10 screen multiplex Odeon

10,000 parking spaces

Employs 2,700 locals

Bus stations since 1986 connects to Cradley Heath railway station (then to Birmingham etc)

Free wifi

Travelodge/Premier Inn less than 15 minute walk away

Online offers and promotions

Kid’s club with free sign up + family discounts

Leisure plateau to integrate Brierley Hill

• bowling alley
• eateries
• casino

Question 2

Impact on environment

Answer 2

Initial hostility (farm)

Urban sprawl

Attracted other development e.g. Housing = green belt

More than 21 million people visit each year = traffic/congestion

Question 3

Socio-economic effects on surrounding town centres

Answer 3

Large retail chains moved e.g. M&S
= town centres less attractive

Dudley (largest nearby town) most affected

• lost 70% market share
• half retailers in 1986 gone 6 years later
• Dudley council gave parking charges throughout area but remained free for Merry Hill = WORSENED

20 years later; schemes to improve occasionally but still not significantly competing with Merry Hill

Question 4

Location and development

Answer 4

Brierley Hill, near Dudley, West Midlands

One of 1980s Enterprise Zones

Previously steelworks and Merry Hill farm

Despite protests, farm destroyed 1st 1982

Steelworks incorporated 1984

Built 1984-1989 but continuing to extend due to competition