Town meets Downs – amazing carvings are a hit at nature reserve

April 27, 2022

Beautiful tree carvings are delighting visitors to a nature reserve.

Thanks to Section 106 funding, the Authority has been able to support Horndean Parish Council on an arts project at Catherington Lith, near Waterlooville, in Hampshire.

The site is a 30-acre ancient woodland with remnants of chalk grassland and was used during the Second World War as an evacuation site for people from Portsmouth.

Ash Dieback meant that some trees had to be removed at the Lith and some stumps were left behind to be turned into elaborate carvings.

The sculptures were created by former tree surgeon and now woodcarver Michael Jones.

Gill Welsman, who oversees S106 payments in the National Park, said: “Catherington is one of the key urban fringe sites of the National Park and very much a gateway to the South Downs.

“It’s lovely to see these inspiring sculptures in place, creating a sense of wonder about the natural world and local heritage and folklore. This artwork is on a walking route into the National Park and we hope it will encourage people to connect with the countryside and explore deeper into the South Downs.”

This year the Authority has funded a range of projects through S106 developer contributions, spending just under £600k during the financial year. A selection of projects supported include:

Corhampton and Meonstoke – ecological improvements at church green.

West Meon – Replacement bus shelter

Horndean – Tree planting at St Giles Churchyard and maintenance of public rights of way.

Chawton – Footpath improvements and interpretation boards.

Lewes – Car club provision.

Petworth – Retractable seating at Leconfield Hall

Binsted – Improvements to Bridleway 504