Improving access to the South Downs National Park from urban areas
March 11, 2025
Around 9km of the Egrets Way has now been delivered to improve access to the National Park.
The project officially began in 2011 with the ambition of creating a shared path following the course of the River Ouse and connecting the villages between Newhaven and Lewes.
It takes its name from the little egret wading bird that you may be lucky enough to see along the route.
The latest phase was completed last autumn, delivering just over 3km of path between Lewes and Southease.
Work on the seventh, and final, phase of the project has now begun, with efforts under way to develop a new shared-used 800m path to connect the existing Egrets Way at Deans Farm and Piddinghoe village High Street.
The project has been led by the National Park Authority, Sustrans and the Egrets Way Community Group.
Alister Linton-Crook, Cycling Project Officer for the South Downs National Park, said:“It’s exciting to be embarking on the final phase of the Egrets Way as the National Park marks its 15th birthday.
“The route provides a safe way for walkers, cyclists, wheelchair-users, mobility scooters and equestrians to get right into the heart of the National Park and experience stunning views and beautiful destinations. It’s part of our wider focus of connecting the National Park to busy urban areas and encouraging more people to be able to experience its health and wellbeing benefits.”
