Downash Appeal Dismissed – A Major Victory for Bewl Water

We are very pleased that the Planning Inspector has dismissed the appeal (Ref: APP/U1430/W/25/3372099) against Rother District Council’s refusal of planning permission for an additional holiday lodge at Downash Wood Treehouses. This was on the edge of Bewl Water. The Inspector concluded that the proposal would harm the character and appearance of the area, including…

Wadhurst and Ticehurst Parish Councils Publish Landmark Bewl Water Survey Results: Community Calls for Nature -First Future at Bewl Water

PRESS RELEASE: Friends of Bewl Water (FoBW) Date: 26th January 2026 FoBW’s Position Claire Moore, Chair of Friends of Bewl Water, said: “These results confirm what we have long believed: Bewl Water is a sanctuary for wildlife and a vital community resource. The public has spoken clearly—nature must come first. We will use this evidence…

🌿 Explore Bewl with the Ramblers – Free Guided Walks This November! 🌿 The Rother Ramblers are inviting local residents to join one of two guided walks at Bewl Water this November – and the first few walks are free to try! 🗓️ 16 Nov – 8.5 miles 📍 Meet at 10am, Pillory Corner (TN5…

The Bewl Water consultation . Having your views about Bewl Water is vital

The questions Your views for Bewl Water are sought. Some of the topics are: keeping the recreational facilities, preserving the natural environment, preserving the wildife, light pollution, building hotels there and maintaining and improving the facilities and training for young people. Why now? The managers of Bewl Water have step by step introduced plans for…

Important Safety Notice

An Important Safety Notice ⚠️ has been Issued by the managers of Bewl Water as follows:  The reservoir is currently at 52% capacity, and as water levels continue to drop, large areas of soft, unstable mud are appearing along the shoreline. For your safety and to help protect our local environment, we kindly ask that…