About

The Group

The Friends of Sutton Downs are a group of like minded residents,  who:

1) recognised the vital services of local recreational greenspace for the whole community especially during the pandemic lockdowns; 

2) appreciated the lapse in the council’s mowing regime and the positive effects on nature and ecology of the site; 

3) shared concerns about the climate crisis and declining biodiversity. 

Meeting initially via zoom and then outdoors and following a period of research and development we presented a proposal to Lewes District Council  to increase the natural capital of the site which the Director of Planning has approved. As a group we have developed a good working relationship with the council, contractors ID Verde and other local groups such as Trees for Seaford, which has lead to getting multiple trees, a hedgerow and wildmeadow already established on the site. Having successfully obtained funding, we now implementing more ambituous plans, outlined in the Growing Project. 

 

Supporters

Brighton Permaculture

We are very fortunate to be supported by a variety of different groups and organisations, such as 

  • Trees for Seaford: providing many of our planted trees alongside expertise for planting
  • Lewes District Council: Support and funding for elements of the project
  • IDVerde: Continued maintanence of the site
  • Ouse Valley Climate Action: Substantial funding for many elements of the Growing Project
  • National Lottery Community fund,
  • Sutton Barn Community Club: Venues for our regular meetings
  • Brighton Permaculture Trust: Additional fruit trees
  • Superfood: food hospitality at planting events
  • SharingSkills: Website hosting

The Sutton Downs

The Downs recreation grounds is one of the last public green space in the neighbourhood of Sutton. This essential outdoor amenity serves as a vibrant hub for the community, blending recreation, history, and nature.

Whilst the Leisure Centre and various sports pitches offer spaces for health and play, the grounds are also host to a well equiped playground and nestled in the corner is the Memorial Garden which provides a peaceful retreat for quiet reflection. 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.

The Sutton Barn, which houses the Sutton Barn Community Club, is a historic old flint barn typical of the historic buildings of Sussex. Surrounding these landmarks, is a green space with tree-lined verges which offer a tranquil escape for residents to unwind and connect with nature.

Get Involved

  • Do you like gardening
  • Are you interested in food that is local, seasonal, organic and free?
  • Do  you want to learn about trees, plants and growing vegetables and herbs?
  • Do you have skills or knowledge to share and pass on?
  • Do you wish to support bees and natural pollinators?
  • Would you like to spend more time being active outdoors?
  • Meet people and make new friends?
  • Or just find out more about this community project?

We welcome all hearts, minds and hands on deck!

We would love to hear from you:

Email: friendsofsuttondowns@gmail.com
Facebook: @friendsofsuttondowns