Welcome to our new team members
The High Weald AONB team has grown in the last few months, with three new colleagues joining us on a part-time basis
These new appointments are in response the rapidly-expanding scope of our work to protect and enhance this historic landscape; recognising the challenges presented by climate change, flooding and new development, and supporting the much-needed restoration of rare grassland habitats.
Sarah Brotherton, PhD – Landscape Officer (research, evidence, guidance)
Sarah leads on the AONB-wide evidence base which underpins the High Weald AONB Management Plan and the activities of the whole team.
Her role involves collating and analysing data and research and producing briefings and reports for our varied stakeholders. Sarah also ensures the team is up-to-date with the latest research across the broad spectrum of technical areas covered by the High Weald AONB Partnership, such as farming, ecology and environmental management.
More about Sarah
Dean Morrison – Project Officer: Sussex Flow (Cuckmere & Combe)
Nature-based solutions are becoming increasingly important in tackling the impacts of climate change and flooding here in the High Weald and beyond. Dean is working on a joint project promoting natural water management to landowners and communities.
These techniques include leaky dams, tree and hedge planting and natural water storage features. The project aims to deliver a range of benefits including nature recovery, increased carbon capture and animal health, as well as greater water retention.
The project is a partnership between the Environment Agency, High Weald AONB Partnership, and Sussex Wildlife Trust with support from Natural England, Southern Water, Sussex Flow and South East River Trust.
More about Dean
Charlotte Gardiner – Meadow Makers Trainee
Charlotte joins us on a six-month traineeship as part of the exciting new Meadow Makers project, run in partnership with Plantlife.
Funded by the government’s Green Recovery Challenge Fund, Meadow Makers aims to restore species-rich grasslands across England. Two grassland sites within the High Weald AONB will benefit from this national project.
Charlotte will work alongside the entire High Weald team during her time with us, developing a wide range of skills from grassland surveying and GIS to project management and social media.
More about Charlotte
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Meet the rest of the High Weald AONB Team