This oasis of tranquillity lies between Haywards Heath and Lindfield and is 15-acres of woodland, grassland, marsh and scrub. The reserve acts as a floodplain for the Scrase stream (a tributary of the Ouse) and so regular flooding of the meadows is expected and catered for in its management. It is very popular with local residents for walking and exercising dogs as well as being a key route linking Haywards Heath to Lindfield. The site offers a valuable wildlife refuge and resource and as such has been given a national designation of 'Local Nature Reserve' (LNR).
A Brief History
The reserve has not changed much in character for many years. Historical records show no sign of cultivation but some grazing by horses and donkeys. This is probably due to the fact that the area is very low lying and the meadows can often stay wet throughout the summer months.
Flora and Fauna
There are several locally and nationally rare plants within the reserve such as Marsh Cinquefoil (Potentilla palustris), Meadow Thistle (Cirsium dissectum) and Marsh Speedwell (Veronica scutellata). Also along the banks of the stream, Purple Toothwort (Lathraea clandestina) has been recorded which is only present on a handful of sites within Sussex. The 'Friends of The Scrase Valley' have also recently planted three Black Poplar trees, a species of national rarity.
Getting Involved
The reserve has been predominantly managed and maintained by Mid Sussex District Council until recently when a concerted effort was made to actively involve the local community. In partnership with the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers (BTCV) a group has now been formed, the Friends of the Scrase Valley. The group is made up of enthusiastic local residents and carry out monthly working parties in the reserve tackling a variety of conservation tasks including the following:
- Willow Coppicing
- Stream Revetment
- Tree Planting
- Stream Clearance
To get involved with this vital conservation work in the reserve contact John Pilkington on Tel: 01444 482166 or e-mail: j_pilkington363@btinternet.com
The newsletters produced by the Friends Group are provided here.
Nature Reserve Leaflet
This colourful and informative leaflet contains location maps and plans of Scrase Valley, and include information on wildlife, history and how the site is managed.
To view a copy of the leaflet click on the links below, to download to your computer right click on the link and select Save Link/Target As.....
Scrase Valley, Haywards Heath - (250KB)
Contacts:
Day to day management: - 01444 477392 Email: ParksOpenSpaces@midsussex.gov.uk
Tree enquiries: - 01444 477392 Email: ParksOpenSpaces@midsussex.gov.uk
Area Ranger: - 01444 458795 Email: rangers@midsussex.gov.uk
Downloads/Links
Contacts
Park Rangers
tel: 01444 477561
Landscapes
tel: 01444 477439
