Protecting the South Downs
In carrying out our main aim of protecting the unique landscape of the South Downs, we have divided the Downs into 12 areas. Each of these twelve sections is looked after by a volunteer called a District Officer whose main task is to look at all planning applications in the area and respond accordingly.
In looking at wider problems some District Officers will be involved in working parties e.g. on County and District structure and local plans and in major developments such as the proposed Brighton & Hove Football Club stadium at Falmer.
Our representations on planning matters are reasonable and reasoned, and because of this the Society has achieved an influence greater than that of other similar groups.
-
Devil's Dyke
-
Devil's Dyke is a unique feature in the Downs near Brighton. The Downsmen contributed £5000 in 1995 for the purchase of Devil's Dyke and nearby Saddlescombe Farm by the National Trust.
Downsmen Donate £5,000 to New Nature Reserve
320 acres of chalk downland at Southerham Farm on the western part of Mt. Caburn were given recently to Sussex Wildlife Trust to be managed as a new nature reserve. The Trust already looks after nearby Malling Down reserve (189 acres) and they intend to manage both sites using grazing animals as a main tool for conservation. This will involve the appointment of a full-time grazing officer. In order to assist the Trust in starting the project the Society's Council decided to make a donation of £5,000. The area is a fine piece of chalk downland and before the Society's decision was made a group of District Officers and Council members visited the site (pictured right).
-
District Officers and Council members visit the site at Southerham Farm