Sussex Wildlife Trust (SWT) will lead Gatwick Greenspace Partnership (GGP) from 1 April 2008.

Funded by the surrounding local authorities and BAA Gatwick, GGP works to enhance open spaces and the local countryside for the benefit of wildlife and the people of Horley, Crawley, Charlwood and Horsham

“There are benefits for all under the Trust’s new leadership,” says Dr Tony Whitbread, Chief Executive of SWT, “GGP gains the support and expertise of the county’s leading conservation organisation and the Trust has a new focus in the north of Sussex with opportunities to raise awareness and protect urban wildlife.”

Pete Crawford, the Project Manager for GGP says: “The merger with SWT means we become the main conservation organisation in the Gatwick area and there are so many opportunities for people to get involved in protecting their local wildlife and countryside.”

GGP projects include a volunteer conservation group that carries out practical management of sites. Work is varied including coppicing in ancient woodlands, restoring heathland and managing meadows.

As well as encouraging the involvement of local people and businesses, GGP organises guided walks, gives advice to the local authorities and landowners on habitat and planning issues and provides environmental education for schools.

Formed in 1994, GGP is funded by BAA Gatwick and surrounding local authorities -Surrey and West Sussex County Councils, Crawley Borough Council, Horsham District Council, Mole Valley District Council, Reigate & Banstead Borough Council, and Horley Town Council.

For more information on GGP and volunteering activities opportunities please visit www.surreycc.gov.uk/gatwickgreenspace

To find out more about SWT visit www.sussexwt.org.uk

Ends