Warley Woods is listed on the English Heritage Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, but over the years it has suffered from lack of investment: Warley Abbey and its gate lodges were demolished in the late 1950s despite local opposition. Two houses were built on the park and subsequently sold into private ownership by the council. The woodlands were neglected over a number of years and inappropriate site management practices have led to damage to archaeological remains in this significant historic landscape.

In 1997, Warley Woods Community Trust was organised to protect, restore and manage the infrastructure of the park. Legal negotiations between Sandwell and Birmingham councils were completed in January 2004 with Warley Woods Community Trust taking over the management of the park in April 2004.

Warley Woods Community Trust has committed to the long term development, management and maintenance of the park. The Trust holds a 99 year lease for Warley Woods.

Warley Woods Community Trust is set up as a company limited by guarantee and is a registered charity. Warley Woods is run by a Board of Trustees made up of volunteers from the local community. There are two staff, over 70 volunteers and 700 members.

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