Southwick Hill: Hands On Help for a Valued Landscape

Set on the edge of the South Downs, Southwick Hill is a valuable natural space, known for its chalk grassland, wildlife interest and popularity with walkers, families and local residents. Keeping sites like this accessible while protecting the surrounding habitat is an important part of its long term care.

On the day, volunteers focused on clearing overgrown vegetation from public footpaths using hand tools and low impact methods. The work helped reopen routes ahead of the spring and summer months, making them safer, clearer and more welcoming for visitors, while protecting the surrounding environment throughout.

With almost 20 people involved, including additional local volunteers, the scale of support made an immediate impact. In a single session, the team completed work that could otherwise have taken several visits, showing the value of collective action on the ground.

The day also demonstrated the strength of partnership working. By bringing together businesses, charities and community volunteers to support a local green space close to the communities we serve, the day delivered a practical improvement with both environmental and social value.

From protecting habitats to improving access, the day showed how hands on volunteering can create a lasting local benefit.

Thank you to Southern Water, the National Trust and all local community volunteers who took part in the day and helped make a real and lasting difference for Southwick Hill, its habitats and the people who use it.