Friends of Bewl Water is sharing the publicly available recording of the Wealden District Council Planning Committee meeting at which the Beals Barn Gardens planning application for a new office building was approved. The video provides the official public record of the discussion, including: the officer presentation, questions and comments from councillors, and representations made…
This is a critical moment for Bewl Water – and we need your help now. A developer is attempting to overturn the unanimous 9–0 decision of Wealden District Council and force through plans to convert the water sports clubhouse at Bewl Water into 11 holiday lets. If this appeal succeeds, the damage to wildlife, water…
An important daytime recreational site and a sanctuary for wildlife Introduction 1) On 8 May 2025, for two hours, the clubs at Bewl Water were invited to view some proposals put forward by Salomons UK, the company which manages Bewl Water. On 9 May 2025, for five hours and 10 May 2025, for three hours,…
Time is running out to make your voice heard. A developer is appealing Rother District Council’s decision to refuse yet another holiday let on the edge of Bewl Water – a peaceful haven for wildlife and a cherished space for our community. We’re urging everyone who cares about the future of this beautiful area to…
Register your objection nowA developer is trying to overturn the decision of Rother District Council and ignores the wishes of the local community. Your help is needed. Please Object Now More information can be found in our leaflet here – 2025 (09) Downash Wood Appeal To object or comment on the appeal (Closing date 21…
The proposed badly designed waterfront 24-hour residential development Step by step a hotelier, has tried to convert Bewl Water from a tranquil site for visitors and wildlife, particularly birds into a Center Parcs-style resort There is a new planning application to convert the old boathouse at Bewl Water with its almost exclusively daytime activity…
We are delighted to share the news that the planning application for Downash has today been refused by Rother District Council’s Planning Committee. This is a significant win for the landscape, wildlife, and all who value the peace and natural beauty of Bewl Water. We extend our heartfelt thanks and congratulations to everyone who contributed to this outcome:…
The controversial Downash planning application is scheduled to be considered by Rother District Council’s Planning Committee on Thursday, 26th June 2025. This is a critical moment for the future of the High Weald National Landscape around Bewl Water, and we strongly encourage local residents, supporters, and concerned citizens to attend the meeting in person to demonstrate the strength of public opposition. 🗓 Date: Thursday, 26th…
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.…
Bewl Water: A sanctuary for animals and an important recreational site for visitors is in danger Bewl Water is under attack 1.The Friends of Bewl Water was founded last year to protect this internationally important ecological site, where animals, particularly birds, need a noise and light pollution free night-time. Many of the birds are on…