Residents Encouraged to Make the Most of Hailsham Country Park This Spring

Do you enjoy spending time outdoors? Hailsham Town Council is inviting residents and visitors to rediscover Hailsham Country Park and experience the colour and vitality of the spring season.

Managed and maintained by the Town Council, the 22-acre Country Park is located off Gleneagles Drive and features a blend of woodland, open recreational grassland, two ponds and a lake. A watercourse borders the main field, and a network of all-weather footpaths run throughout the site, enabling visitors of all ages and abilities to make full use of this valued green space.

FEATURES OF HAILSHAM COUNTRY PARK

Fishing: The lake at Gleneagles Drive and Hempstead Pond, adjacent to Tilehurst Wood, are stocked with a range of fish species including carp, bream, roach, rudd, tench, perch and pike. The Southdown & Hydneye Community Angling Club (SHCAC) manages the lease of both waters. While there is currently no closed season, temporary closures may be introduced if spawning activity is observed, in order to protect fish stocks.

Woodland Areas: The park’s woodland areas contain a diverse variety of trees, including birch, oak, ash, maple and wild cherry. During spring, fresh foliage and blossom enhance the landscape, while wildlife such as voles, mice, lizards and weasels can often be seen within their natural habitats.

Access and Parking: Visitors can access the park easily via two free car parks located off Holyhead Close and Gleneagles Drive. Clear signage is displayed throughout to help guide visitors around the site.

Cllr Mary Laxton, Chair of the Assets Management Committee, commented: “Spring is a particularly delightful time to visit the Country Park, as the landscape comes back to life with new growth, birdsong and brighter days. With its peaceful surroundings and wide range of features, the park offers an excellent opportunity for residents and visitors to enjoy fresh air and outdoor recreation.”

“Whether it is fishing at the lake, jogging or cycling along the pathways, observing wildlife, exercising a dog responsibly or simply allowing children to enjoy open space in a safe environment, the park provides something for everyone. We are fortunate to have such a valuable natural asset within our community and encourage people to make the most of it during the spring months.”

RECENT AND ONGOING IMPROVEMENTS

In recent years, the Town Council has undertaken a number of enhancements to further improve the park, including:

• Installation of a new path around Wentworth Pond

• Resurfacing of pathways around the lake to improve accessibility for visitors with mobility needs

• Additional tree planting as part of long-term environmental objectives, including flowering cherry, rowan, ginkgo and liquidambar trees

• Selective tree thinning at Wentworth Wood to encourage healthier ground cover and improved habitats

• Essential fencing repairs to maintain safety and secure the park boundaries

These improvements demonstrate the Council’s ongoing commitment to maintaining an inclusive, accessible and environmentally responsible public space.

A WELL MAINTAINED AND WELCOMING ENVIRONMENT

The park continues to be maintained to a high standard by the Town Council’s works team, ensuring it remains clean, safe and enjoyable throughout the year. Routine inspections, grounds maintenance and necessary repairs are carried out regularly to protect both visitors and the natural environment.

Cllr Laxton added: “The Town Council is responsible for maintaining several acres of public open space across Hailsham, from formal parks and recreation grounds to grassed areas, ponds and lakes. Providing a clean, safe and accessible environment for the community remains a key priority. We are pleased to continue investing in improvements at the Country Park to ensure it remains a welcoming space for all.”

“During the spring months, Hailsham Country Park truly comes into its own. The seasonal colours, blossoming trees and increased wildlife activity create a vibrant yet tranquil setting, ideal for leisurely walks, outdoor exercise and moments of quiet reflection. With its well-maintained all-weather paths, the park offers an accessible and refreshing destination for everyone seeking to enjoy the benefits of the new season.”