We are beyond thrilled at the opportunity to become stewards of land in East Sussex. It is a privilege to be taking care of such a precious part of our natural world.
As we are situated in a unique and precious landscape of chalk grassland we recognise that actively supporting biodiversity is one of our responsibilities. To that end, we will engage with Sussex Wildlife Trust and South Downs National Park. We hope to learn from their experts how to get to know the habitat and monitor the landscape. Ecological surveys are our starting point for this.
We see possibilities for woodland flora and fauna regeneration and wish to extend it where viable. We will restore the little woodland shelter. We will offer land based activities and skill sharing to the wider community for all ages.
Bringing a sense of beauty and fun will be integral to everything we do on the land. The artists, writers and designers among us are keen to create aesthetic harmony in the landscape in the form of a garden, with areas for quiet contemplation.
We intend to host open days aimed at providing opportunities for the local community to come and get involved in land based activities. Apple pressing days, elderflower wine or elderberries brews and tincture making are part of the heritage we will bring with us to the project.
Water retention techniques to slow down and retain water on the landscape is a potential contribution we could make to enhance biodiversity and as part of flood mitigation. We would look to the SDNP and the local councils for guidance on this.