Contact Karen: friendsofsuttondowns@gmail.com
Friends of Sutton Downs aims to provide a means for local people to become involved in this neighbourhood green space, and to secure a future for this special place as a nature-friendly resource for the whole community. A vibrant place for playing sports, walking, meeting up and simply taking a breath of fresh air in a green open space, the recreation grounds at the Downs have supported the wellbeing of people in Seaford for over half a century.
The Memorial Garden
Behind a sweep of flint wall at Sutton Corner and hugged by blossom trees is one of Seaford’s well-kept secrets. This little-known spot is frequented by young and older members of the community, including the Over 60 Choir who sing in the summer there, the weekly meetings of the Pétanque Club and groups who meet in its tranquil seclusion and colour. As the last remnants of public greenspace in the neighbourhood of Sutton, and an important outdoors amenity for the town, the Downs recreation grounds have the potential to bring people and nature together within our living environment a truly dynamic and harmonious way.
The Growing Project
Friends of Sutton Downs are working together with Lewes District Council and local groups to develop a ‘Growing Project’ as a response to the climate emergency and decline of biodiversity and natural habitats. The playing fields and car park are flanked by substantial verges and grassed areas that can be naturalised with downland grasses and wildflowers for birds and pollinating insects. There is scope for planting hedgerows and trees around the perimeter and in a community orchard, and a vegetable growing area while retaining and enhancing the walks around the grounds that are much loved by locals. We would love to hear from gardeners and novices alike, and anyone who is waiting for a plot to come up on the allotments who may like to get involved with growing food by and for the local community.
- Naturalising the grass verges
- Promote habitats to support pollinating insects
- Plant hedgerows, trees and grow food
- Get together with local people