The idea
Conduit Woods is an 11-acre parcel of semi-ancient woodland in the High Weald of Sussex, near Hassocks and Hurstpierpoint. Rich with oak, hazel, ash, a seasonal chalk stream and rare species, it’s a precious sanctuary in a time of dwindling natural habitats.
Our vision is to regenerate, restore and steward this woodland so it can thrive for generations to come—a living resource for biodiversity, traditional skills, community connection and deepening our relationship with the land and each other.
Like much of the land in the area, Conduit Woods has been hit hard by ash dieback. Many ash trees are now dead or unstable, creating safety risks and preventing new growth from taking hold.
Our immediate priority is to raise funds to safely fell the dead and dangerous ash trees, making space and light enabling us to plant and nurture a healthier new generation of oak, hazel and other native trees.
This first round of essential ash-dieback work requires £4,000 by March.
What we'll deliver
- Safely fell the dead and dangerous ash trees (hit by ash dieback)
Why it's a great idea
Ash dieback is progressing quickly, and this winter is the critical window for safe felling. Acting now prevents further damage and accelerates recovery
Restoring the woods will strengthen local biodiversity, create space for animals and plants to flourish, and offer people a place to reconnect with nature and with one another.
Conduit is also part of a personal legacy, gifted by Hannelore Kettle, who passed in January 2025. We hope this restoration becomes a living tribute to her spirit—a project that supports life to thrive.
Our aim is to revive traditional woodland management, including bringing the hazel back into a coppice rotation—hugely beneficial for wildlife and a craft that has shaped this landscape for centuries. Alongside this, we’re building a friendly, intergenerational community who tend the land together: volunteer days, conversations, tea, fire, learning and connection.
We believe caring for the land also cares for us—supporting wellbeing, belonging and resilience.
Steps to get it done
- Safe felling of dead and dangerous ash tries (hit by ash die back)
