For many people who grew up in Smethwick during the 1960s, 70s and 80s, the skyline was dominated by the unmistakable tower blocks of Boulton Place and Murdoch Place. Standing proudly on the Windmill Lane Estate, they were home to hundreds of local families before disappearing completely during the late 1980s.
In this episode of The Sandwell Walker, I return to the streets where I grew up to explore the fascinating history of the estate and discover what remains today.
Walking around the former estate, I revisit many of the places that shaped everyday life, including Corbett Street, Suffrage Street, Ballot Street and Windmill Lane. Along the way I share personal memories while uncovering the history of Scribbans Bakery, the Robinson Crusoe and Windmill pubs, the local schools, Windmill Precinct and the open ground remembered by many local children as the “Bomb Buildings.”
Using historic photographs, archive research and present-day footage, this episode compares the past with the present, revealing just how dramatically this part of Smethwick has changed over the last seventy years.
Rather than simply listing historical facts, this documentary aims to preserve the memories of the people who lived here. Every street corner has a story, every building has a history and every memory helps to paint a picture of a community that has now almost completely disappeared.
If you lived on the Windmill Lane Estate, attended one of the local schools, worked at Scribbans Bakery, visited the Robinson Crusoe or Windmill pubs, or simply remember growing up in this part of Smethwick, I would love to hear your memories. Your comments and photographs help ensure these stories are preserved for future generations.
Featured Locations
- Boulton Place
- Murdoch Place
- Windmill Lane Estate
- Corbett Street
- Suffrage Street
- Ballot Street
- Scribbans Bakery
- Robinson Crusoe Pub
- The Windmill Pub
- Windmill Precinct
- Smethwick, Sandwell
Episode Highlights
- Discover why the Windmill Lane Estate was built in the 1950s.
- Learn the story behind Boulton Place and Murdoch Place.
- Revisit the streets that many local families once called home.
- See how the area has changed since the tower blocks were demolished.
- Compare archive photographs with present-day locations.
- Hear personal memories from someone who grew up on the estate.
Help Preserve Sandwell’s History
The Sandwell Walker Project is dedicated to preserving the history, memories and communities of Sandwell before they disappear from living memory.
If you have old photographs, documents or personal stories connected with Boulton Place, Murdoch Place or the wider Windmill Lane area, I would love to hear from you. With your permission, your memories may help shape future episodes and ensure the history of our communities is never forgotten.