We are please to be able to tell you that both sections of phase 1 of Sandgate Country Park are now open to public access.
Some of you may be aware that a condition of the planning approval given for the development of the RMC Workshops site north of the A283 between Storrington and the Washington roundabout (east of Hampers Lane) as Millford Grange housing development was that two former quarry areas would be made accessible to the public as Phase 1 of Sandgate Country Park. These areas are the former quarry north of the Millford Grange housing development and the area between the Cemex Sandgate Park Quarry (off Water Lane) and Sandgate Park.
The area north of the Millford Grange housing development became open to the public in early 2017 and, with the path provided by the National Trust across its adjacent field, provides a largely off road walking route from the BT telephone exchange (next to the fire station) in Storrington to Washington, the on-road sections being mainly quiet roads. This area is usually referred to as Millford Grange Country Park
The opening of the Water Lane area was promised for Autumn 2017 but that date came and went with no activity on the site. The Society continued to raise the matter with the Horsham District Council Planning Department and eventually there were small signs of activity on the Water Lane site, such as new fencing. More time passed with little visible progress. The Society continued to press HDC Planning for updates and in the Autumn work started on the creation of the paths and access points. The site became safe for public access in October 2018. This area is usually referred to as Water Lane Country Park
You can enter Water Lane Country Park from a gate on the corner of Water Lane and Sandgate Lane. There are two access points into Sandgate Park but both of these are currently difficult to use due to inclines, a stream and encroaching vegetation. The Society is currently liaising with HDC Parks on what can be done to improve accessibility.
The new area provides good, wide paths and a fascinating view of the Cemex and Britanniacrest quarries as well as a wonderful view across to the South Downs.
Please respect the area and its wildlife by picking up and disposing of dog waste and litter responsibly. There are no bins in the area so please take all waste away with you – discarded plastic bags full of dog waste have, unfortunately, already appeared.