We work to encourage as many people as possible to access the Downs. To that end, we are replacing stiles with gates. There is a rolling programme to replace other existing stiles over time.

Work continues with the provision of oak benches on the South Downs Way. Seven benches have been installed thus far. The challenge now is to finish the project, dealing with the stretch between Ditchling and Eastbourne.

In past years we have paid to improve sections of the South Downs Way.

Some of our current projects include

Miles without stiles

Replacement stiles with kissing gates. Many older walkers are now unable to climb stiles, many of which are in poor condition.

Oak benches

Oak benches placed along the route of the South Downs Way. The Friends is providing funding for benches placed every few miles in along the South Downs Way made of locally sourced oak.

Restoring access

Improvements to the surface of the South Downs Way. The Friends provided funding to refurbish a 1km badly worn part of the South Downs Way near Plumpton.

Open access

We believe it is important to increase the extent of access land in the South Downs, and the number of gaps, gates and stiles, and pathways, to enable everyone to enjoy the Downs to the full.

More to explore

Children & Young People

The Friends are investing heavily in helping children to get to know and appreciate the Downs.

Planning

Our planning policy guidelines provide the basis of our campaign and help us respond to new developments and planning applications.

Access

Work we are undertaking to encourage as many people as possible to access the Downs.

Conservation

Wildlife has been depleted on the South Downs. The Friends share the view that we should do what we can to help nature recover.