Uncategorised Archives - Surrey Hills National Landscape

Landmark Memorandum of Understanding Signed

Posted on September 27, 2022 | by Caroline | Leave a Comment

Arts Council England and National Association for Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty sign landmark Memorandum of Understanding

Sir Nicholas Serota, chair of Arts Council England and Philip Hygate, chair of the National Association for Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (NAAONB), signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding on 23 September. It represents their commitments to working together to nurture new links between arts and cultural organisations, and England’s 34 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs).

Working in partnership under this Memorandum of Understanding means both organisations deliver on their own priorities, underpinned by joint ambitions to see more people engaging with culture and landscape, promoting opportunities, prosperity, and wellbeing for rural communities, and contributing to conversations around tackling the climate emergency.

For years, AONB teams around the country have commissioned or partnered on awe-inspiring art installations and activities, and the Memorandum symbolises a step change in their commitment to partnering with culture organisations to develop high-quality, ambitious art that will reach and move people and communities across England.

Surrey Hills Arts is a partnership between Surrey Arts, Surrey County Council and the Surrey Hills National Landscape. It aims to engage and inspire people in the outstanding natural landscape through an imaginative programme across the arts, promoting heritage, health and tourism. Over the past fifteen years, they have delivered innovative landscape projects engaging local communities and developing emerging artists. Surrey Hills Arts is an excellent example to how connecting to the countryside via the arts can create a deep respect and understanding, as well as the promotion of mental wellbeing when in the landscape.

The Board of the Surrey Hills AONB has signaled its commitment to creating greater links with arts organisations by endorsing the AONB Network’s Art in the Landscape Strategy. We are excited to see how the project develops nationally and locally over the coming years and we will be building greater links with our local cultural organisations.

The signing was hosted by Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Partnership at Samphire Hoe Nature Reserve, as part of AONB’s Salt + EARTH: Festival of Landscape, Seascape and the Environment. The festival saw artists, creatives and scientists explore everything from geography to geology, sounds to sculptures, food to Deep Time. The festival is an exemplar of how when art, science and landscape come together, our understanding is deepened, but more importantly, our enjoyment and curiosity is fired.

Sir Nicholas Serota, chair of Arts Council England said: “The natural environment has inspired artists and writers through the ages. Today, awareness of our environment feeds our imagination, greatly benefits our wellbeing, and broadens our understanding of the climate challenges we face.

“Today’s signing represents further ambitions to deepen our appreciation and engagement with England’s rural landscapes, and their surrounding communities. Reflected through the Arts Council’s commitment to environmental responsibility, this Memorandum highlights the important, crucial connection between culture and the landscape.”

Philip Hygate, chair of the National Association for Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty said: “England’s 34 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty are deeply committed to working with art and culture organisations. We have seen that when AONB Partnerships and artists come together, the results add up to far more than the sum of their parts, creating experiences that will live long in people’s memories. This agreement with Arts Council England provides a framework for us to do more of this invaluable work and enable more people to develop a relationship with the landscapes on their own terms.”

A video commissioned by Arts Council England and the National Association for AONBs

Surrey Hills Arts launches ‘HABITAT’

Posted on July 29, 2022 | by Caroline | Leave a Comment

On Wednesday 27 July, Surrey Hills Arts celebrated their launch of ‘HABITAT’ at the University of Surrey. ‘HABITAT’ is an Arts Council funded project working collaboratively with the University of Surrey and Surrey Wildlife Trust, exploring how artists can positively contribute to increasing biodiversity in urban spaces.

As an experimental pilot project, a built-up space at the University of Surrey was selected. Working with the University’s Horticultural and Landscape Manager and Archives and Special Collections Manager, the Surrey Wildlife Trust and four artists, the project set out to transform the area with planting and sculptures created specially to attract and support local wildlife. The artists worked collectively as well as independently researching local declining species and experimenting with designs and maquettes towards their final artworks.

This project has been a wonderful collaboration across campus teams, with local organisations and artists, and a range of community groups. The launch event was attended by representatives from arts, environment, community and civic organisations and the lively discussions revealed the potential of this project, and the creative way it addressed environmental issues, as a springboard for further initiatives across the area.
Helen Roberts, Archives and Special Collections Manager, University of Surrey

HABITAT team with the Mayor of Guildford during the project launch evening at the University of Surrey. Image by Paul Stead

Supporting species at the base of the food chain was the focus for artist Livia Spinolo. By increasing the population of slugs and snails this will attract birds such as the Song Thrush and Bull Finch. Her artwork ‘Vertical Undergrowth’ is a tower of repurposed concrete slabs planted with natural elements such as soil, moss, and native plants. Situated in a shady location, this feature will attract invertebrates whilst providing ledges for the birds.

Nearby to ‘Vertical Undergrowth’, lies a sculpture housing discarded branches. Over 50% of insects that rely on deadwood are threatened in Surrey. Creatures such as beetles, bees, butterflies, wasps, wood boring insects and in turn, their predators, are at risk. ‘Benjes Ark’ by Russell Jakubowski is able to be regularly restocked as the wood breaks down and in creating two ‘arks’ of different scales and locations, we are able to monitor the species attracted to different conditions. The Arks provide a hiding place and a micro-climate. Their densely packed enclosures also act as a refuge for reptiles such as toads, lizards and hedgehogs.

Livia Spinolo with her artwork *Vertical Undergrowth*
Image by Paul Stead

Artist Amy Haigh has created a ‘Reconfigured Cycle Rack’ that was no longer needed by the University. She cut this into 600 pieces and reassembled it to create a dome structure with a log pile at its centre. Amy’s research for the piece focused on slow worms and stag beetles as protected species present in the area. She found that decaying logs are fundamental for stag beetles as a food source and by planting them deep in the ground, the beetle larvae are able to migrate between the soil and wood. The shade helps to create damper conditions and therefore softer soil, required by stag beetles and other invertebrate species, some of which slow worms feed on. Amy embedded the lowest ring of pipes in the soil, forming tunnels in every direction creating safe terrain for slow worms.

‘HexB’ by Will Nash utilises his fascination with natural geometry and sequences to develop new sculptural ideas for solitary bee architecture using 3D printing, silicone moulding, and cast Jesmonite. Will invented a prototype system of nest holes that can be easily disassembled for the annual harvesting of the bee cocoons then cleaned for reuse. As a legacy to this project, Will plans to work with solitary bee enthusiasts to trial the HexB system alongside their other bee nests.

Amy Haigh with her artwork *Reconfigured Cycle Rack*
Image by Paul Stead

Will Nash with his artwork *HexB*
Image by Paul Stead

The artworks will be monitored over the seasons to assess which species are benefitting and to help us to plan further eco spaces across the county. The artists also came up with some simple sculptural habitat ideas that everyone can make from a willow nest ball to a bird feeder. They ran workshops with local community groups including Halow, The Hive and Kings College secondary school. In all, 400 people learned about their local species and created artworks to support them. An additional benefit of this reconfigured space and the sculptural habitats within it, is that it provides a much-improved area for students of the University to take a break, be more mindful of wildlife and, hopefully, positively impact their wellbeing.

Artists want to make a difference to our biodiversity crisis, and this project has given them time to create pieces that help support the many species sadly in decline in the county. This much needed experimental project provides a positive starting point towards greener Surrey communities.
Ali Clarke, Programme Manager, Surrey Hills Arts

Surrey Hills Arts are working with Surrey Hills Society to fundraise for Part 2 of the project. You can support their Your Fund Surrey application by agreeing and commenting on the proposal here.

You can read more about the Habitat project at www.surreyhillsarts.org/habitat

Job opportunity: Environmental Land Management Adviser

Posted on July 26, 2022 | by Caroline | Leave a Comment

NOW CLOSED

This role is part of the Surrey Hills National Landscape team, hosted by Surrey County Council and working flexibly out of the National Trust Surrey Hills Estate Office at Box Hill and an office location in South West Surrey. The role will support the delivery of the Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) programme across the Surrey Hills and support the Heathland Connections programme as part of the emerging Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) for Surrey.

The starting salary for this role is £32,173 per annum for working 36 hours per week. This position is offered as a 24-month fixed-term contract or secondment opportunity.

Find out more & apply

We are looking for a motivated individual with the confidence to engage with farmers and land managers, both individually and collaboratively. You will provide advice, support and facilitation to deliver projects under the FiPL programme themes of climate, nature, people and place. You will be an organised and enthusiastic person with an understanding of farming and land management issues relevant to the Surrey Hills and the ability to work in partnership with a wide range of individuals and organisations. Under the guidance of the Surrey Hills Programme Manager, you will be the first point of contact for the FiPL programme and will assist with providing monitoring and feedback on the progress of the scheme to Defra.

You should be educated to at least HND level and have the confidence to work with farmers and land managers. You should have knowledge of conservation/land management and of countryside access, and familiarity with current agri-environment schemes.

Occasional evening and weekend work may be required. Applicants should be able to travel to places not available on public transport as the post holder will be required to visit sites across the Surrey Hills and wider area.

Key Tasks:

To provide a first point of contact between the Surrey Hills National Landscape team and potential applicants to the Farming in Protected Landscapes programme and to support applicants with their applications
To provide advice on conservation, land management and access and engagement, to promote high quality applications to the programme.
To proactively approach land managers in the western section of the Surrey Hills National Landscape, as part of the Surrey LNRS and the potential for a super Thursley NNR
To build partnerships and collaboration between farmers and land managers to bring landscape scale projects forward for funding
To support the three existing Surrey Hills Land Management Cluster groups identifying training needs and supporting the provision of training and networking events
To help identify access, habitat enhancement and other environmental opportunities, such as natural flood risk solutions, in support of the Surrey Hills Making Space for Nature Recovery Strategy and the emerging Surrey LNRS
To support the Farming in Protected Landscapes Local Assessment Panel, including the provision of summary reports and recommendations on applications
To ensure compliance with the terms and conditions of support offered under the programme, including the management of multi-year agreements
To support project and programme level evaluation

Essential Knowledge, Skills and Experience

Keen interest in environmental land management and nature recovery
Knowledge and understanding of sustainable/regenerative farming and the management of semi-natural habitats, particularly heathland and chalk downland
Strong motivation, drive, initiative and creativity
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to negotiate and build relationships with farmers, land managers and landowners to enable them to collaborate for nature conservation
Current UK driving licence
Competent with GIS or digital mapping

At Surrey, our values and behaviours are just as important as our skills and abilities. They shape who we are as an organisation. Find out more about the values we follow.

For more information please find the full job description below and refer to this before submitting your application. We also invite you to read our Life at Surrey handbook to see insights of the culture at Surrey and how as a valued employee, you can help shape our Council.

Additional information

The job advert closes at 23:59 on 10/08/2022 with interviews to follow.

Contact details

For an informal discussion please contact Sarah Thiele by e-mail at sarah.thiele@surreycc.gov.uk.

We look forward to receiving your application, please click on the apply online button below to submit.

Benefits

From flexible working to job sharing (where possible) we are committed to providing a healthy work life balance. A laptop and mobile will be supplied if applicable to your role. You will benefit from 26 days annual leave, rising to 28 days after 2 years’ service, a generous local government salary related pension, as well as the option to join our car lease scheme. For more information about the wide variety of benefits you can take advantage of please visit MyBenefits for Surrey County Council staff.

Our Commitment

Surrey County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We want to be an inclusive and diverse employer of first choice reflecting the community we serve and particularly welcome applications from all under represented groups.

Surrey Hills National Landscape launches Summer Travel Campaign

Posted on July 13, 2022 | by Caroline | Leave a Comment

The Surrey Hills National Landscape is delighted to launch their Summer Travel Campaign, welcoming visitors into the Surrey Hills by bus, rail, and active travel.

The Surrey Hills is one of the most popular of the 44 National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty in England with approximately 30 million visitors every year seeking to explore its countryside mainly by car. This puts great pressure on the roads, car parks and on our local communities. By working alongside rail and bus operators, local authorities and our business community, the campaign has been developed to provide a wonderful experience for those coming to the Surrey Hills via public transport.

On the 12 July, the refresh of the Mole Gap Trail was launched, the first of a series of promoted routes within the landscape. A railway poster created by Louise Dunkley was unveiled by Helyn Clack, Chair of Surrey County Council and Paul Potter, Chair of Mole Valley District Council at the inspiring location of Denbies Wine Estate, who kindly sponsored the event. These posters will be on display at over 10 stations, including Clapham Junction and London Victoria over the summer.

The Mole Gap trail links Leatherhead and Dorking town centres through beautiful Surrey countryside. The Mole Valley Welcome Back Fund enabled new signage which is sympathetic to the landscape to engage and educate the public enjoying the trail, recognising the importance of the relationship between town and country within and adjacent to the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

I am so pleased to see impressive collaboration between organisations to encourage sustainable travel to the beautiful Surrey Hills. The campaign gives visitors the opportunity to make the switch from car to public transport, and experience the countryside in a new, exciting way.
Helyn Clack, Chair of Surrey County Council

The trail offers QR codes linking to heritage points of interest, encouraging spend with local businesses including members of Surrey Hills Enterprises, within the town centres, and information on native Surrey Hills species depicted in detailed illustrations commissioned by Surrey Hills Society and funded by Surrey Hills Trust Fund. The design integrates with the existing silver arrows along the route by working with Surrey County Council, creating a cohesive and educative trail.

Funding received from the Welcome Back Fund this year has allowed us to support the visitor economy in Mole Valley. We are delighted to have been able to assist the Surrey Hills Board with these enhancements to the Mole Gap Trail and look forward to welcoming visitors into our beautiful area.
Councillor David Draper, Mole Valley District Council Cabinet Member for Leisure and Tourism

This highly significant walking route not only showcases the beautiful countryside of Mole Valley but now also strengthens the relationship between town and countryside, encouraging visitors to extend their day to enjoy all that Dorking and Leatherhead have to offer in terms of hospitality, culture, history, and retail
Councillor Clayton Wellman, Mole Valley District Council Cabinet Member for Sustainable Economy and Security

https://youtu.be/WuwWyXEBc3I

The Mole Gap trail will also be able to be enjoyed online on the new Surrey Hills website through interactive maps, planned to go live in late summer. This allows people to discover and learn about the landscape digitally, inspiring a greater sense of confidence and knowledge towards the countryside. These maps will become available for most of our trails, which will have a key focus on sustainable transport throughout, working with local service providers such as Stagecoach, Southern and South Western Railway, as well as the Community Rail Partnerships.

Travelling by public transport is a fantastic way to help preserve and protect the Surrey Hills and Mole Valley, so we’re delighted to support the summer campaign. What’s more, jumping on the train is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery as part of your journey.
Chris Fowler, Customer Services Director, Southern Railway

The Surrey Hills is working with Surrey County Council and its collaboration with BetterPoints, to reward car-free journeys when visiting the Surrey Hills. The BetterPoints app awards points to residents who travel by foot, bike or on public transport throughout Surrey, including the Surrey Hills. The points can be redeemed at participating traders or donated to a selection of charities.

A further collaboration with Surrey County Council later in the summer will see the reinforcement of good behaviours in the countryside via a Countryside Code campaign of onsite posters and short videos across social media platforms. The friendly, accessible videos will highlight key messages from farmers, cyclists, ramblers, horse riders, volunteers and more to encourage good behaviours and a sense of confidence in the countryside so that everyone feels welcome to enjoy the outdoors.

Thank you to all our partners who have enabled such fantastic collaboration to help promote travelling to the Surrey Hills by bus, rail, and active travel. This is an integral message to welcome visitors into the landscape yet ensure they do so in the right way. We look forward to developing this campaign through our new website and mapping software in the coming months and creating a portfolio of trails to be enjoyed via greener transport.
Heather Kerswell, Independent Chair of the Surrey Hills AONB Board

Celebrate Surrey’s woodlands

Posted on June 5, 2022 | by Maggie Howell | Leave a Comment

Celebrate Surrey’s woodlands and discover the wonder of wood at the Surrey Hills Wood Fair 2022

Learn about traditional woodland crafts and enjoy an immersive day out in the woods at the Surrey Hills Wood Fair 2022.

Held from 10am to 5pm on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 September, the 12^th annual Surrey Hills Wood Fair will take place at Fish Pond Copse in Cranleigh and is an exciting, fun as well as educational day out for the whole family. Brimming with traditional rural charm, enjoy woodland-based activities and demonstrations, take part in interactive activities and browse handmade wood-crafted products.

Take a walk through the woods and see wood crafting, learn fire making or knife skills, listen to storytelling and be inspired by hedge making and craft activities. Organised by Community Interest Company, Surrey Hills Enterprises, the alfresco event will cover a host of countryside pursuits, with lots to get involved with, including tree climbing, axe throwing, archery, forest bathing, digger driving and saw mill demos. Children will especially love the shire horse and wagon rides, giant board games, bug hunting and zip wire, with lots to keep family members, big and small, entertained.

The perfect early autumn day out in a magnificent setting with easy access from Cranleigh, spend time in the fresh air in the company of family and friends at the Surrey Hills Wood Fair, get amongst the trees and celebrate the beauty of the woodlands of the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). With Surrey the most wooded county, learn about the benefits of woodlands for the planet, body and mind, as well as our Surrey Hills heritage, whilst supporting independent businesses and skilled artisans in the process. Smell the wood smoke, discover the versatility of wood as a material and see master craftspeople in action.

There will be beautiful woodland products from local artisans available to browse, buy and take home, as well as a delicious selection of Surrey Hills’ food and drink on offer from local producers. From sustainably made beer, local rum or gin, to freshly ground coffee, tempting ice cream and handmade chocolate or fudge, there will be a wide array of locally made options including African stews, healthy seasonal dishes, indulgent waffles and much more.

The Surrey Hills Wood Fair 2022 will take place from 10am to 5pm on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 September at Fish Pond Copse, Bookhurst Road, Cranleigh. Advance tickets are priced at £7.50 or £10 on the gate, with free entry for children under 16. Advance ticket sales close at 12 noon on Friday 9 September. Free parking on site and friendly dogs welcome on leads.

For more information and to book, visit: https://surreyhills.org/events/surrey-hills-wood-fair-2022.

Surrey Hills host Lord Benyon for a day of landscape and community engagement

Posted on February 3, 2022 | by Caroline | Leave a Comment

On Tuesday 1 February 2022, the Surrey Hills National Landscape was delighted to host The Rt Hon Lord Benyon, the Government Minister for Rural Affairs, Access to Nature and Biosecurity for the opportunity to hear about their current projects, and meet some of the land managers, local businesses and partners within the Surrey Hills.

Welcomed by Heather Kerswell (Independent Chair) and Rob Fairbanks (Director) the Minister’s morning started at Chinthurst Hill, in one of the evaluation areas for the Surrey Hills boundary review, a project led by Natural England. The boundary review is an excellent opportunity for locations outside of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) to be formally assessed with the potential to be included within an extended protected area. The public engagement platform closed on 31 January and saw over 2,000pieces of evidence gathered across the landscape.

Pictured left to right: Rob Fairbanks (Surrey Hills Board Director), Clive Smith (Surrey Hills Planning Adviser), Stephen Rudd (Natural England), Heather Kerswell (Surrey Hills Independent Chair) and The Rt Hon Lord Benyon

At Newlands Corner, which commands wonderful views across the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Minister was joined by Albury Estate landowner, Earl Percy, and Marisa Heath, Surrey’s cabinet member for Environment. They were given an overview on the recent improvements to visitor facilities including new signage and interpretation, self-guided walking trails and the resurfaced car park. The group enjoyed a preview of the newly upgraded Discovery Centre, which is due to open to the public in the coming months, as well as viewing a short compilation of the #MySurreyHills video series. Looking across the viewpoint, the Growth Team from Surrey Choices welcomed the group to the beautiful landscape where they have been undertaking some essential habitat and access management work to restore the chalk grassland habitat. This work is being undertaken in collaboration with the Surrey Hills Society, and this talented team from Surrey Choices are the first group of Surrey Hills Conservation Volunteers, helping manage access and habitats for people and nature. Surrey Choices provide a range of support services, which are dedicated to improving the independence, confidence, and life skills of disabled and autistic people and those with other support needs.

Pictured: The Growth Team from Surrey Choices, Lord Benyon and Surrey Hills Society

Walking along the North Downs way, the Guildford Design Award-winning ‘Optohedron’ by Will Nash was a brilliant way to frame the view and discover one of the Inspiring Views from the Surrey Hills Arts programme.

Pictured left to right: Alistair Burtenshaw, Director of Watts Gallery and Surrey Hills Arts Chair Lord Benyon and Alison Clarke (Surrey Hills Arts)

Continuing down into the Albury Estate, they were able to see one of the Surrey Hills FiPL applications (Farming in Protected Landscapes, funded by Defra) in action through the new flail collector purchased via the grant by Michael Baxter of the Albury Estate. This new machinery has enabled the Estate to improve its management of the important heathland, chalk grassland and woodland sites by working more efficiently and productively over larger areas. This is to the benefit of the landscape, wildlife, for example the small blue butterfly, biodiversity and the many people who visit this part of the Surrey Hills. The FiPL fund is key to helping deliver the Surrey Hills Management Plan by supporting projects including cluster groups of landowners and managers who are planting over 7.5 km of new native hedgerow this winter.

Pictured: Alex & Dom of Albury Organic Vineyard with Lord Benyon

Finally, after walking through the Albury Organic Vineyard, the Minister and guests enjoyed some delicious lunch from Surrey Hills Enterprises members Mandira’s Kitchen which was served with Albury Organic wine. This also gave the opportunity to meet local business owners such as Norbury Park Cheese, Silent Pool Distillery, LC Energy and Coverwood Farm, hosted by Simon Whalley and Wendy Varcoe of Surrey Hills Enterprises.

Pictured left to right: Lord Benyon, Marisa Heath, Earl Percy and Heather Kerswell

The Minister was able to witness the stunning illustrations of the Surrey Hills indicator species from their Making Space for Nature project. These paintings were created by an ‘Our Time’ artist at HMP Send, taking part in a programme delivered by Watts Gallery Trust and funded by the Michael Varah Memorial Fund in collaboration with the Surrey Hills Society and Surrey Hills Trust Fund.

Lunch was set in the background of the Albury Estate Vineyard and the site where a wildlife pond is being created. Before departure, Lord Benyon was able to plant a tree at this site and thank his hosts.

I was delighted to meet the talented and passionate Surrey Hills family and their partners for what was a vibrant and informative day. It was wonderful to hear about the valuable work being undertaken to support native species and improve access for the public.
The Rt Hon Lord Benyon

We are very grateful to Lord Benyon for accepting our invitation to spend a day in the Surrey Hills. His enthusiasm and interest in our projects was brilliant to see and we look forward to updating him in due course about all the work we do at the Surrey Hills.
Heather Kerswell, Independent Chair of the Surrey Hills

Vibrant murals and maps transform bus shelters

Posted on October 20, 2021 | by Caroline | Leave a Comment

A colourful makeover has transformed three bus shelters and created a useful information point for exploring Haslemere and the stunning surrounding countryside.

The community has rallied round to bring a new lease of life to the shelters, which are located just outside Haslemere Railway Station.

The new-look shelters now feature key information about the town and wider landscape. Maps and vibrant photography are designed to highlight Haslemere as a gateway to the South Downs National Park and Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

Amazing photography of local wildlife, including the sand lizard and Darford Warbler, is featured on the new interpretation panels, intended to inspire visitors to explore further and experience some of the natural wonders the local landscape has to offer.

Walkers stepping off the train will be able to choose to explore two different trails. The National Park’s Serpent Trail – a 65-mile-long route that starts in Haslemere and weaves its way through reptile-rich heathlands to Petersfield – or the Greensand Way – running for 57 miles through Surrey before winding down to Kent, and linking to the North Downs Way.

Haslemere Community Rail Partnership & Partners launch new bus shelters promoting protected landscapes.

The work has been a collaboration between Haslemere Community Station, the South Downs National Park Authority, Surrey Hills AONB, the Community Rail Network and Heathlands Reunited. Funding also came from Shottermill Great War Memorial Trust and South Western Railways.

Unveiling the new shelters, Simon Dear, Mayor of Haslemere, said: “I think the bus shelters are great.

“This project establishes a continuing relationship with the South Downs National Park and the public transport systems in the town. It’s also a statement of civic pride in the area. We had a pretty rundown conventional bus shelter before and because of the effort and enthusiasm of the people involved in this project we now have something much more substantial, attractive and informative.”

Ken Griffiths, Acting Chairman of Haslemere Community Station, said: “This is a fantastic 36ft-long mural that really stands out. It not only promotes the town, but also the countryside around us.”

Allison Thorpe, who leads access in the South Downs National Park, said: “This project really has transformed these bus shelters and created a new focal point that can act as a stepping stone for a day-out in Haslemere and the surrounding countryside. The town is a key gateway for the National Park and I hope people enjoy exploring what the area has to offer.”

Rob Fairbanks, Surrey Hills AONB Board Director, said: “This transformation of the bus shelter enables us to highlight that public transport can link our beautiful landscapes for all to enjoy them in a sustainable way. Haslemere is a gateway to two long distance routes, the Greensand Way which takes you across the Surrey Hills into Kent and the Serpent Trail in the South Downs National Park. By showcasing these routes through the eye-catching bus shelter visuals we hope to raise awareness and understanding of our nationally protected landscapes and the wonderful opportunities on offer for recreation, health and wellbeing”.

Local artist Sue Fisher, a member of Haslemere Arts Society, painted the watercolours of iconic buildings for the Haslemere maps. She said: “It was quite a challenge to paint all these lovely historic buildings. My favourites were, The Town House, a beautiful Georgian mansion Grade-II listed building with a blue plaque commemorating Edward Whymper, who climbed the Matterhorn in 1865, and almost opposite Haslemere Museum, where Haslemere Art Society hold their annual exhibition. It’s been a pleasure to have been asked to do the artwork and thrilled to see it now in its place in the bus shelter.”

Thanks also to Bert England, who created maps of the town.

Hindhead Tunnel celebrates ten years of making life better for the environment, community and road users

Posted on July 27, 2021 | by Caroline | Leave a Comment

The pioneering Hindhead Tunnel in Surrey that helps to connect Hindhead Common, and that has improved air quality, reduced traffic noise and eased traffic queues on the A3 route between London and the south coast, celebrates its tenth anniversary today.

The 1.2 mile long tunnel, which resolved decades of congestion problems for both the local community and long distance traffic, has restored peace and tranquillity to an area of outstanding natural beauty, diverted traffic from an internationally protected site, and improved journeys for millions of drivers.

The tunnel forms part of a four-mile bypass that has ended a notorious bottleneck in Hindhead, and enabled the reinstatement of a highly valued part of the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty by relocating the A3 under the Devil’s Punchbowl, an internationally protected site.

A decade on from the opening of the tunnel, Hindhead Common and the Devil’s Punch Bowl, which are within the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, have been united with removal of the old A3. A ten-year Countryside Stewardship grant, from Natural England, has allowed the National Trust, who look after the site, to embark on one of the largest healthland restoration projects in Southern England.

The fragile and endangered historic heathland habitat has been managed and cared for by the Trust over the past 10 years to enable the return of rare and diverse breeding birds such as woodlark and nightjar.

The nationally scarce heath tiger beetle has been sighted, and conditions are now more favourable for the return of the silver studded blue butterfly.

The Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) has also been assessed by Natural England as meeting its nature conservation targets.

This restoration of the landscape within the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty has created a haven for visitors choosing to spend time exploring the stunning heathland and views. New paths created by the National Trust enable visitors to enjoy the tranquillity of the site while avoiding wildlife disturbance on sensitive heathland areas.

Removing traffic from the village of Hindhead itself has had a significant improvement on the air quality. Hindhead village was declared an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) in 2004 due to the poor air quality created by queuing traffic along the old A3. Levels of nitrogen dioxide at Hindhead dropped below 40 micrograms per cubic metre when the tunnel opened in 2011, with a further drop to 30 in 2013. This resulted in the AQMA being lifted in 2015 and the village now meets national standards.

Speaking on the tunnels anniversary, Highways England senior environmental advisor Henry Penner, who worked on the project said:

“As we seek to build back better, the Hindhead Tunnel shows how, by using high design standards, the longest road tunnel in the UK to date has enhanced the surrounding environment, solved long-standing traffic problems and helped to support the economy through a better connection between London and the south coast.”

“I am delighted that this area has become one of the top wildlife sites in the south east of England and provides a haven for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. It’s hard to believe that just ten years ago, the busy A3 still ran right through the middle of this community.”

Highways England Tunnel Manager, John Nicholas also said:

“The Hindhead Tunnel was the final piece in the jigsaw which made the whole of the A3 between London and Portsmouth dual carriageway, removing the last, heavily-congested pinch point at Hindhead and through the Devil’s Punchbowl. This has resulted in dramatically improved journeys for millions of local and long-distance drivers over the past ten years, and improved safety and air quality in the area.”

National Trust lead ranger at Hindhead, Matt Cusack who has led on the restoration at Hindhead over the past ten years said:

“Personally for me, it was two days after the tunnel opened when the really important work began; when the old A3 closed we finally got the chance to reunite the landscape and nature on the site could start to thrive again.

“I am thrilled with what we’ve achieved for nature at Hindhead and the Devil’s Punch Bowl during my watch. The removal of the A3 was a major milestone, enabling us to thin trees and transform the site into a swathe of heathland. Heather mowing, the introduction of woodlark nesting areas, grazing and scrub management conducted under the Countryside Stewardship grant scheme has helped to restore the rare and important habitat. This couldn’t have been achieved without the support of our National Trust Hindhead team and our dedicated local volunteers.”

Natural England Conservation Advisor, Graham Steven said:

“The past year has really brought home to us all just how precious our countryside is. The Devil’s Punch Bowl has been completely transformed and is an area where people can appreciate nature. It’s a fabulous success story.”

“With our advice and financial support to the National Trust, they have created new habitats and wildlife can move across the landscape, whereas before the busy road was a major barrier.

“This is a tremendous example of restoring habitats at a large scale alongside major development and we hope demonstrates what can be achieved going forward under the new Nature Recovery Network initiative.”

Director of Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), Rob Fairbanks added:

“The Hindhead Tunnel Scheme is by far the largest capital investment in restoring nature, connectivity and tranquillity in the Surrey Hills since it was designated in 1958. It is also perhaps the largest single civil engineering investment in all of the country’s 44 National Parks and AONBs. The Hindhead Tunnel has been fantastic in terms of nature and people, and it’s wonderful to see how ten years after the tunnel was built, that nature has been fully restored to the area for the first time in nearly 200 years.”

The project won awards for its innovation and safety record, but comments from people who worked on the scheme all have a common theme. This is that the legacy of the Hindhead project was not just about applying good design from the start, but collaboration between the local community and other organisations can lead to better long-term results, and the Hindhead Tunnel is proof of that.

Latest addition to the Inspiring Views project launches in the Surrey Hills

Posted on July 6, 2021 | by Caroline | Leave a Comment

A new Surrey Hills Arts Inspiring Views artwork was launched at the end of June on Denbies Hillside in the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). ‘Radius’ created by artist and designer, James Tunnard is a distinct sculptural seat and the eighth in the ‘Inspiring Views’ programme, which opens up hidden views, undertakes conservation work, improves access and commissions artists to interpret the views through art.

James Tunnard’s innovative design captures the essence of the surrounding undulating landscape in its curving shape. Radius has been crafted from locally-sourced oak and provides a wonderful place to stop and reflect when out exploring in the Surrey Hills.

Upon getting up close to Radius visitors will discover words and thoughtful inscriptions from members of the public and local poets which have been engraved on individual battens. Each of the inscriptions have been inspired by the natural surroundings and provide another opportunity to reflect and appreciate the stunning landscape.

Radius is about creating a place to pause for a moment, for visitors to enjoy the view and contemplate the sculpture and poetry inspired by it.
James Tunnard, Creator of Radius

A series of walks around ‘Radius’ have been created working with the Surrey Hils Society that take visitors through the vineyard, to nearby attractions including the pretty market town of Dorking with its art galleries, boutiques and antique shops. They include an accessible trail suitable for those with mobility issues or families with buggies and young children. You can download the walking routes from here: Radius – Surrey Hills Arts

I am delighted to be adding to our successful Inspiring Views project which draws visitors out into the Surrey Hills to discover not only inspirational artworks but also breathtaking views. It has been wonderful to engage others in this artworkk from the many inscriptions on ‘Radius’, the various trails and an insightful podcast.
Ali Clarke, Surrey Hills Arts Programme Manager

Following the installation of Radius, there will begin an inspirational learning programme to engage people through sculpture workshops, walks and nature conservation activities. James will guide people to make their own temporary outdoor structures and bug houses, whilst exploring and learning about their local landscapes.

They include an accessible trail suitable for those with mobility issues or families with buggies and young children. You can download the walking routes from here: Radius – Surrey Hills Arts

This project is funded by the Interreg France (Channel) England Programme and co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund. It is supported by Surrey Hills Arts, Denbies Wine Estate, Mole Valley District Council and the North Downs Way National Trail.

For more information on Radius please visit : https://www.surreyhillsarts.org/permanent-works/radius.

Heathland Artworks returns to Farnham Heath

Posted on July 1, 2021 | by Caroline | Leave a Comment

Surrey Hills Arts presents Heathland Artworks at RSPB Farnham Heath. Local emerging artists studying Craft, Fine Art and Textiles at the University for the Creative Arts have been exploring the wildlife, geology and history of the heath all year to develop a series of temporary artworks creating a circular art trail which you can download from our website.

Heathland Artworks is a perfect opportunity to get out into this beautiful landscape and see some wonderful creations. This year the exciting artworks include textile hangings, ceramic egg forms and navigation markers. Fine Art MA student Noelle Genevier creates stunning collages and is embracing the challenge of exhibiting these outdoors where they will wrap around the trees in a stunning display of image, texture and colour. Stephanie Harper is creating stunning glass discs representing droplets of sky that have fallen onto the heath and Audrey Rohde is busy building a collection of ceramic seating inspired by fleeting moments of interaction with wildlife. Each of her three stools are linked to local nature; cows, roe deer, and oyster mushrooms; symbolic of this magical connection, creating a community minded gathering space.

This popular annual trail provides a new way to view and learn about the heath. The project has given the students an invaluable experience in preparing a proposal, presenting this to a panel, and developing the necessary skills to create and install the works.

Ali Clarke, Programme Manager for Surrey Hills Arts comments;

‘This is such a popular project where students have the freedom to experiment with ideas and materials allowing them to come up with such innovative pieces for all to enjoy throughout Summer and on through Farnham Craft Month in October.’

Heathland Artworks will be open for visitors at Farnham Heath from June 24th – 31st October and is free of charge. Parking is available at the Rural Life Living Museum, Tilford, during opening hours.

Heathland Artworks Trail

New Rail to Ramble routes highlight sustainable access to the Surrey Hills

Posted on June 30, 2021 | by Caroline | Leave a Comment

This week saw the launch of a new series of Rail to Ramble routes, designed to highlight how accessible the Surrey Hills is by train and to encourage people to visit this nationally protected landscape in a more sustainable way.

The four new routes have been created along Great Western Railway’s North Downs line, between the stations of Guildford and Reigate. Each route can be accessed directly from the railway station and takes in some wonderful Surrey Hills views as well as the North Downs Way National Trail and many points of interest along the way.

From left; Gaynor & David Daniels South East Community Rail Partnership, Heather Kerswell, Surrey Hills AONB Board, Ken Bare, Surrey Hills Society, Christine Howard, Surrey Hills Society, Patricia Allen, St Martha Parish Council, Gordon Jackson, Surrey Hills Society.

The Rail to Ramble leaflets have been launched as a collaboration between the Surrey Hills Society, who created and tested the routes; the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), who worked on the design and content of the leaflet itself; and with funding from Great Western Railway via the Southeast Community Rail Partnership (SCRP), an organisation that works to connect local communities with the railway across Sussex, Kent and Surrey.

As well as detailing a fascinating and scenic walking route that is directly accessible from the station, each leaflet also highlights local points of interest along the way. The four leaflets cover routes of 5 to 6.5 miles long (8 to 10.5 km) between:

1) Shalford and Chilworth via St Martha’s (with the option of starting the route from Guildford)

2) Chilworth to Gomshall via Blackheath and Shere

3) Gomshall to Dorking Deepdene

4) Dorking Deepdene to Betchworth (via Pixham and Brockham)

The start and finish points near the stations have been designed so that routes can be connected to form longer explorations for those looking to embark upon a more substantial adventure. The new Rail to Ramble leaflets will be widely available to pick up locally in the areas around the routes, in local businesses and at stations along the railway line. They can also be downloaded from the Surrey Hills website.

The walks have been created to inspire people, via the breathtaking scenery on offer and the excellent rail links, to leave their cars at home and use public transport to access and enjoy the Surrey Hills AONB in a way that impacts less on the environment.

Gordon Jackson, Chairman of the Surrey Hills Society, comments:

“The North Downs line runs through the Surrey Hills AONB and provides the perfect means of accessing the countryside in a sustainable way. Over the past year we have received a huge number of visitors to the area, particularly by car. As much as we welcome visitors we are also aware of the impact this can have on residents particularly in areas where parking is limited. Accessing the area by train helps to ease this pressure”.

The rail network not only offers a vital service for rural communities, it also connects urban populations with the countryside and the North Downs Way, making it one of the most accessible National Trails in the country. The railway route not only provides people with the chance to experience the ample health and wellbeing benefits of being within nature, but it also brings added footfall to rural businesses, in turn supporting the countryside economy.

David Daniels, Line Officer for the South East Community Rail Partnership, North Downs line comments:

“The launch of the new walks is fantastic news for the North Downs line. It has been wonderful to see all the parties working together to make this dream a reality which will really make a tangible difference to both the surrounding communities and those accessing the line from further afield. Engaging local communities, whilst also providing a huge benefit to visitors to the area, the new routes will be a fantastic addition to the Surrey Hills offering.”

For further information on the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) visit www.surreyhills.org.

Natural England announces proposed expansion of Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Posted on June 24, 2021 | by Caroline | Leave a Comment

Surrey Hills Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) extension to be considered.
Natural England will take forward the Prime Minister’s commitment in his 10 Point Plan for a Green Industrial Revolution to designate more national landscapes.

Renewed commitment to boost nature recovery and help more people access Britain’s most beautiful landscapes as we build back greener from the pandemic.

Natural England is today (Thursday 24 June) announcing that the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is to be considered for boundary expansion. Securing this designation would allow the area to benefit from greater protections, so that more of England’s beautiful landscapes are safeguarded for future generations.

The Surrey Hills AONB stretches across a quarter of the county of Surrey and includes the chalk slopes of the North Downs from Farnham in the west to Oxted in the east, and extends south to the deeply wooded Greensand Hills which rise in Haslemere.

On the doorstep of London, an extension to the Surrey Hills AONB boundary would give greater access to the natural environment. This would help preserve its rural heritage, promote tranquillity and give more access to nature for the benefit of people’s health and well-being.

Three other areas – the Chilterns, Cheshire Sandstone Ridge and Yorkshire Wolds – will be considered for greater protections, with potential to deliver over 40% of the additional 4,000km2 required to meet the UK’s commitment to protect 30% of our land by 2030.

Allison Potts, Area Manager for Natural England said:

“The Surrey Hills is an iconic and beautiful landscape encompassing rare habitats from chalk grassland to extensive ancient woodland and is enjoyed by millions of residents and visitors from all across the region.

“We are very excited to announce proposals to explore an extension to the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a move we hope will boost nature’s recovery and help more people access one of England’s most beautiful landscapes, as we build back greener from the pandemic.”

Heather Kerswell, Chair of the Surrey Hills AONB Board said:

“We are delighted that work is starting on a proposed extension to this nationally important landscape. I find it difficult to understand why the existing boundary was drawn so incredibly tight and excluded many beautiful natural landscapes. This will be a once in a lifetime opportunity to assess how the boundaries should be redrawn to benefit nature and people and to give these areas the protection they deserve. We will be working closely with Natural England and local partners.”

Julian Glover, who led the government’s independent review of England’s National Parks and AONBs said:

‘It’s over 70 years since we first began to protect our national landscapes. Now it’s time to redouble our efforts to do more for nature and more for the people who live in and visit wonderful places such as the Surrey Hills, by finding fair and swift ways to sort out their boundaries. I’m really pleased that Natural England and the government are working with local groups to make sure we get it right”

The proposals follow the independent review led by Julian Glover which called for action to make our protected landscapes greener, more beautiful and open to everyone. Natural England welcomed the Review which set out a compelling vision for more beautiful, biodiverse and accessible National Parks and AONBs.

Chair of Natural England Tony Juniper said:

“Today’s announcement signals an ambitious step forward in growing our family of precious national landscapes, as well as protecting and improving the ones we have.

“One thing that has become very apparent recently, and especially during the pandemic, is the enormous benefit people get from having access to beautiful nature-rich landscapes. These can, however, be hard for many people to access, thereby raising the question of how more can be done to bring nature and people closer together. On this, we see huge opportunities arising from the establishment of the England Nature Recovery Network, of which wilder national landscapes will be a vital part.

“As Government’s statutory landscape adviser, we look forward to continuing to work closely with Government, designated landscape bodies and stakeholders to deliver more for and through England’s diverse landscapes.”

Further details about today’s announcement can be found by visiting GOV.UK