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…

Global ‘extinction crisis’ could see 500 bird species vanish within a century – report

A worrying report shows we are facing a global bird extinction crisis unprecedented in modern times, with habitat loss emerging as the most significant driver of species extinction. However, local conservation actions show that small efforts can have resounding success and the paper calls for urgent conservation efforts to mitigate this huge threat. A news…

Gull Report Update

We are pleased to share news that the Phelps Gull Report, commissioned by Wadhurst Parish Council, has been updated. This critical document assesses the impacts of human disturbance on gull roost sites at Bewl Water. The updated report, now including new findings and recommendations by renowned ornithologist David Campbell, is essential support for conservation efforts.…