A proposal has been submitted to Hastings Borough Council to build 65 houses on the green space between St. Helen’s Woods and The Ridge, near Sandrock Hall Bends. This land isn’t just unused space—it’s an essential wildlife corridor and natural water buffer. If this development goes ahead, it will devastate the delicate balance of life in and around the woods.
What’s at Stake?
- An irreplaceable green corridor linking the woods to the wider countryside
- A sanctuary for wildlife, including bats, birds, deer, and small mammals
- Natural water flow that protects the woods—and Hastings—from flooding
- Our community’s peace and wellbeing, and a precious part of local heritage
Why This Green Corridor Matters
This stretch of land is vital for the survival of countless species – bats, birds, deer, badgers, foxes, doormice and more. It provides food, shelter, and safe routes for wildlife moving between habitats. Paving it over would cut them off, causing a severe decline in biodiversity and the vitality of plants and trees.
Experts have told us the developer’s plans completely fail to consider the consequences for St. Helen’s Woods, am ancient nature reserve in Hastings.
Why The Impact on Water Matters
The land at Sandrock Bends acts like a sponge—absorbing rainwater, preventing floods, and feeding the woods. Remove it, and you risk:
- Collapsing woodland dams
- Drought conditions that kill trees and plants
- Flooding in the woods and in the town further downstream
Experts have told us that the developers’ plans will not prevent overspill and don’t address these impacts at all.
WHAT YOU CAN DO RIGHT NOW:
Everyone has the power to object or to give comments, whether you are a Hastings Borough Council resident or not. The deadline has now passed but you can still send in your comments and concerns.
Tell the Council: NO to the Destruction of Our Woods
Make your objection personal and specific. What do the woods mean to you? How would you feel if they were damaged?
Click here to submit your objection
Stay Informed
The St. Helen’s Park Preservation Society is working with ecologists and hydrologists to examine and challenge the proposals. Stay updated by joining our mailing list (see below).
Save Sandrock Bends Group
A wider group of local residents are considering not just the ecological impact of the development, but also the infrastructure, wider flooding and traffic issues that could affect the entire towns of Hastings and St. Leonards, as well as anyone who travels along The Ridge. Visit their website to find out more: https://www.savesandrockbends.co.uk/
Let’s all work together to stand up for nature! THANK YOU.