Wealden District Council acquired the site late in 2015. The reason being to provide a SANGS (Suitable Alternative Natural Green Space) to mitigate the effects of development in Crowborough and provide a recreational area for local residents. The site had previously been used for horse grazing for many years.
We have worked with landscape and ecological experts to retain the character of the site whilst making it an accessible and pleasant environment to visit and spend time at. Initially we have provided nearly 3km of all weather tracks to encourage all year use. In the coming year we will be carrying out extensive tree and woodland planting, opening up the riverbank as well as creating seasonal grass paths and leisure areas.
Over the next few years we shall be introducing timber boardwalks to the wetter fields to enable their use all year, as well as sympathetically opening up the Moat Field to enable a glimpse into the past. If you want to become more involved in the site and its development please contact the openspaces@wealden.gov.uk.
The ‘Alder Brook’ passes through the site, it feeds into the River Medway near Groombridge. We are opening up the area to encourage more wildlife and will be providing informal paths and bridges over the brook. We are also taking steps to encourage brown trout back into the river which many locals remember from their youth.
In Moat Field there is evidence of a medieval moated building which was called Walshes Manor. Exact details of its use are unclear. Over the coming years we will be working with expert bodies to find out more about the site.
The public footpath across the site is believed to have been an old droveway and give breathtaking views in all directions. The best viewpoint being from the grass circle in The High Field.