New car parking charges and traffic controls will be introduced in Stanmer Park from 1 April.
The changes are being introduced in response to concerns from residents and visitors about parking problems in the park during the day.
The new measures have also been designed to protect the heritage of the Grade II listed Historic Park and Garden which is currently undergoing a £5.1 million restoration project.
Investing in the park
Income from car parking charges will be ring fenced for use in Stanmer Park and the wider estate to continue the investment in, and protection of, important historic structures, and management and maintenance of the park.
Warning notices are currently being issued by traffic enforcement officers alerting drivers to the introduction of paid parking. Other changes include:
- A new layout for parking, with the majority being away from the 18th century designed landscape
- Access to Stanmer Village restricted to pedestrians, cyclists, authorised permit holders and Blue Badge holders only. (This was approved at the Environment, Transport & Sustainability Committee in January, when members agreed that the village should be controlled as a private parking scheme.)
- Access to the historic Walled Garden restricted to pedestrians, cyclists, , business leaseholders and Plumpton College deliveries
- Reduction to the size of the layby opposite Stanmer House which can only be used for drop off and collection
- New cycle parking for all, including Brighton Bikes, next to the Walled Garden and the Kiosk at Lower Lodges West
More parking spaces
The number of parking spaces in car parks away from designed heritage features has been increased and overflow parking can be made available for peak periods.
The charges vary depending on time and location but will range from £1 for an hour to £6.50 for 11 hours. Signs have been erected throughout the park and more information is available on the Stanmer Park pages of the council website:
A review of the parking scheme will be carried out in 18 months.
Rich heritage
Funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Big Lottery in partnership with Brighton & Hove City Council, Plumpton College and the South Downs National Park, the Stanmer Park Restoration Project celebrates the Estate’s rich heritage of important features, including the historic Walled Garden.
Look out for new activities and events at Stanmer Park and One Garden Brighton, run by Brighton & Hove City Council and Plumpton College.
Take the bus!
Breeze up to the Downs campaign by Brighton & Hove buses offers visitors to Ditchling Beacon and Stanmer Park great offers:
- £5 ‘Breeze Return:’ walkers can use this ticket to return from Devil’s Dyke or Ditchling Beacon.
- Free Travel for journeys that are only within the park (eg Stanmer Park Entrance to Stanmer Village)
- Up to two children (under 16) go FREE when travelling with an adult.
The 78, which runs right through Stanmer Park and up to the village, church and café, runs Saturday, Sunday and bank holiday throughout the year.
