town and borough (district), administrative and historic county of Worcestershire, west-central England, in the valley of the River Arrow, a tributary of the Avon. The borough is known for its needle, fishhook, and spring manufactures. Bicycles and motorcycles are also produced. In 1965 it was designated by British planners as a new town for Birmingham's overspill population. Area 21 square miles (54 square km). Pop. (2001) 74,803.