Lost Woods is bringing local people together to learn about, explore, and care for woods across the Low Weald and Downs. Together, we can reconnect with our ancient woodlands and revive, restore, and protect them for future generations.
The five-year project (running until Autumn 2027) is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Across the Sussex Low Weald and Downs, ancient woodlands have been broken up and separated by expanding development. We need to act now - to reconnect and strengthen them for the future - before they’re lost forever.
We’re reversing the damage by regenerating lost areas of woodland and creating nature corridors between them.
In our communities, many of us have lost a connection to our local woods. We might not know how to enjoy all they offer, or how we can play our own part in looking after this ancient landscape and its wildlife.
Some people may feel excluded, or face barriers to accessing their local woodland. We’re working with local landowners, volunteers and community groups to rebuild that connection through training, activities and inspiration.
The project area is home to irreplaceable ancient and veteran trees, which provide habitats for a host of wildlife. But despite their age and value, ancient trees are in danger of being lost because they lack legal protection.
We’re working with volunteers to record every one of these precious trees – so we better understand how to protect their futures.
As our Lost Woods recover, the impact of their revival will be wide-reaching. From personal wellbeing to protecting our planet, healthy woodlands are a vital part of our ecosystem.
They can help to:
Exploring, learning about and caring for our woods can help us get together and strengthen our community spirit.
Trees give us fresh air, tackle air pollution and even improve our immune systems. Time in nature gives us a chance to rest and recharge from busy lives, leaving us feeling happier and calmer.
Trees help us produce food in a more sustainable way. Trees around farms improve the soil, prevent flooding and give shade and shelter to animals. Woods also support pollinators and other organisms that our food systems rely on.
Woods have been a part of daily life in Sussex for millennia. We have a rich local culture of woodland traditions, history, and stories that we can reconnect with.
Trees are transformational in helping us to cope with the effects of climate change and making our landscapes more resilient. They reduce pollution, stabilise soil, prevent flooding, contribute to local water cycles and lock up carbon.
These woods are home to rare species that have been lost from the wider landscape. Conserving, managing and reconnecting fragmented woodland will increase its capacity to house wildlife, and boost biodiversity.
Our project team is made up of staff and volunteers from four partner charities: Action in Rural Sussex, Small Woods Association, Sussex Wildlife Trust and The Woodland Trust.
The project is made possible with support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
By working closely together and sharing our expertise with local community groups, we will help to restore and revive woodlands.
With your support, we can transform our Lost Woods into Loved Woods. Everyone can play their part. If you’d like to get involved, we’d love to hear from you.