Cliff Gardens
Frequently Asked Questions
Download the illustrated on-site FAQs here
What is happening at the site?
Work is underway to create an attractive public garden and educational space, showcasing some of the rare, amazing habitats we have locally that are a haven for wildlife.
The aim of the coastal-themed garden is to raise awareness about climate change and local biodiversity, with many of the planting being resistant to drought.
Designed by Gabby Tofts and acclaimed local sculptor Christian Funnell, creator of Seaford’s much-loved ‘The Shoal – Seaford Community Bench’, there will be new public seating areas and sculptures included within the Cliff Gardens project.
The project will also resurface a section of the National Cycle Route 2 that is currently in need of repairs.
When does the work start and finish?
The shared-use path will be resurfaced and open in the winter of 2025 as work continues on the adjacent garden.
The hand-made beds, garden access path and sculptures will follow and planting undertaken in the spring of 2026.
Cliff Gardens is planned to re-open to the public in late spring 2026.
What will be here when the work is done?
There will be a new resurfaced shared-used path that is part of the National Cycle Route 2.
The accessible public garden will comprise seven hand-made flower beds of corten steel showcasing some of our local habitats, from shingle pioneer plants to the species that are adapted to our chalk cliffs and downland chalk grassland.
The garden will be available as an educational resource for use by local school groups to experience local plants and habitats up close and learn about how our changing climate affects our local area. Seaford Community Partnership are working with local schools to ensure the space meets their needs.
How is the project being paid for?
This project is funded by grants from the Community Infrastructure Levy through Lewes District Council, the National Lottery Community Fund & is part-funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Who is leading this project?
This project is the original vision of Seaford Community Partnership. Following full planning permission from Lewes District Council, the construction project is being delivered by the South Downs National Park Authority, in liaison with Seaford Town Council, the site owners. The finished garden will be owned by Seaford Town Council and maintained by a dedicated volunteer group, working with Seaford Community Partnership.
Will I still be able to cycle/walk through Cliff Gardens during construction?
During construction, the shared-use route will be moved to the Pump Field side of Cliff Gardens and will be fenced and clearly signposted.
The newly-surfaced shared-use route will be open as soon as constructed and will remain open during construction of the adjacent garden.
How can the local community get involved?
There will be lots of opportunities to help with the planting and care of the garden. Please see contact details below.
Key contacts
For queries relating to the construction, please contact the South Downs National Park Authority at cliffgardensproject@southdowns.gov.uk or call 01730 819380.
If you would like to get involved in planting and caring for the new garden, contact Seaford Community Partnership at hm@seafordpartnership.co.uk.
Seaford Town Council are the site owners and can be contacted at admin@seafordtowncouncil.gov.uk.
Learn more about the OVCA Project here: www.southdowns.gov.uk/ovca