Reviving and celebrating the heritage of Stanmer Estate
For 230 years, the Pelham family owned Stanmer Estate. At the time of purchase, they employed Nicholas Dubois to design the present manor house. Following the construction of the house the current walled gardens and ornamental gardens were laid out.
During the 19th century the estate was maintained and enlarged. The gardens were modified and the existing church was built.
In 1942, the estate was requisitioned to provide billeting and firing ranges for a Canadian tank regiment. Following the second world war the estate was sold to The Brighton Corporation bringing an end to 230 years of ownership from the Pelham Family.
The historical importance of the park will be reflected in the restoration. The 18th century design was a key period in British landscape history. This was the last time the park was designed and managed as a single estate.
A park for everyone
The project has introduced many changes and improvements at Stanmer Park to support and improve accessibility for all.
New features include:
- new easier-access pathways and trails
- more park public toilets including a disabled facility in the new Information and Welcome Kiosk at the Lower Lodges
- a new shared-access central pedestrian and cyclist pathway
- accessible toilets in the Walled Garden
- new park-wide interpretation
Sustainability
The Stanmer Park Restoration Project is included in the City Sustainability Action Plan 2015-2017. The Land Use and Wildlife section of the plan focuses on:
- protecting and increasing biodiversity and biological productivity
- while supporting beautiful landscapes and protecting ecosystem services
Stanmer Estate is the city's only country park and is a critical link to the South Downs National Park. It is an area of outstanding beauty. It is protected by the South Downs National Park Authority. They work with partners to tackle challenges including:
- climate change
- demographic change
- development pressures
Stanmer Park sits in the Brighton and Lewes Downs Biosphere which is also known as The Living Coast. The area was designated a UNESCO World Biosphere Region in 2014. In 2018 it was awarded funding to boost sustainable tourism in the area. The project is working "to create a world-class environment, that is economically successful and enjoyed by all - forever."
The Stanmer Park Restoration Project and The Living Coast are working together to achieve the aims and objectives set out in the Biosphere Management Strategy.
These include:
- nature conservation
- sustainable socio-Economic development
- knowledge, learning and awareness