To kick off 2025, the South Downs National Park Authority has announced 26 projects across Sussex and Hampshire that will receive a share of just over £1.9m.
The funds have been raised through the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), which is administered by the National Park Authority and paid by developers as a means of supporting new community infrastructure.
In addition to the £1.9m, 29 parish councils across the National Park are sharing more than £313,000 for the benefit of their local community.
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More than £720,000 will go towards the second phase of Centurion Way (Image: South Downs National Park Authority) In Hampshire, £75,000 will go towards access and toilet improvements at Petersfield Heath, as well as a further £30,000 to be spent on the installation of a Changing Places toilet at Queen Elizabeth Country Park.
Meanwhile, £40,000 will go towards “Butser’s butterflies” with extra funding to improve the precious chalk grassland for the insects.
Selborne School will benefit from £100,000 for an extension to help improve after-school facilities.
On the Meon Valley Trail, access will be improved with the addition of a new ramp at Soberton, thanks to a cash injection of £75,000.
Around £30,000 will go towards the restoration of a walled garden at Chawton House which has long associations with Jane Austen and her family.
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£75,000 will go towards access and toilet improvements at Petersfield Heath (Image: Anne Purkiss) In West Sussex, more than £720,000 will go towards the second phase of Centurion Way, which is providing a new link for walkers and cyclists from Chichester into the heart of the National Park at Cocking and linking up with the South Downs Way.
Some £50,000 will go towards improving wetland and grazing habitats at RSPB Pulborough Brooks, while £20,000 has been allocated towards refurbishing Burpham Village Hall.
At Northchapel, £20,000 will go towards installing a multi-use games area at the local sports club.
In East Sussex, £245,000 will help to upgrade a number of paths and infrastructure in the Lower Ouse Valley, improving links to train stations and local attractions.
At Lewes Railway Land, a new wildlife viewing platform will be created at the Winterbourne Stream, thanks to £14,000 of funding, while £120,000 will go towards improving cycling facilities in the town.
Vanessa Rowlands, chair of the South Downs National Park Authority, said: “As we begin 2025 and enter the National Park’s 15th year, it’s wonderful to share this good news.
“There’s a great mix of projects across the length and breadth of the National Park, many that will enrich the quality of people’s lives and help improve access to this cherished landscape, as well as tackling the biodiversity and climate crises.”