PLANS to bring a treasured Sedgley landmark back to its former glory will also attempt to stamp out anti-social behaviour at Beacon Hill.

The Wildlife Trust hopes to secure a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund to help restore the 170 year old grade II listed Sedgley Beacon Tower and the surrounding area.

Opening up the magnificent views and recreating lost wildlife habitats are top priorities but stopping vehicles getting unauthorised access to the site is also on the agenda.

The news will be welcomed by Scott Williams, whose partner lives on the neighbouring estate, said young people often ride around the site at "excessive speeds, without helmets" - despite motorbikes being banned from any of the borough's parks or open spaces.

After a recent near-miss, where he had to grab his young daughter out of the path of a scrambler bike that "came out of nowhere", the 38-year-old now refuses to visit the 30 hectare site.

But bikes aren't the only concern, Mr Williams, whose partner lives on the neighbouring estate, said the Beacon is also a haven for groups drinking alcohol and taking drugs.

Simon Atkinson, conservation manager at the trust, said he was aware of anti-social behaviour issues and hoped to use the project to work with the police, council and residents and help address them.

He continued: "We believe that encouraging positive use of the site by a wide range of people, such as local residents, community groups, schools, walking groups, etcetera, will help deter anti-social activity.

"During the development phase we would commission design work on entrances and other site infrastructure with the aim of reducing access for off-road vehicles whilst enabling access for those with disabilities and pushchairs.

“This will be a challenge, however, we’re confident that the site can be improved significantly."

The trust, which is working with the Friends of Sedgley Beacon, Dudley Council and South Staffs Water on the project, is asking people who visit the site to fill out an online survey to help shape plans.

Dudley North MP Ian Austin has encouraged people to have their say: "The Beacon is a local landmark and should be a place for local people to go and enjoy. I am delighted to back the bid for funding and I hope that local residents get involved in shaping the project."

People have until Friday (May 20) to fill out the survey at www.bbcwildlife.org.uk/sedgleybeacon.