INITIAL work has begun on a new open-access countryside area.

The 74-acre Owlsbury Park site at Little Horsted looks across the valley to Uckfield and the High Weald.

Extensive landscaping and planting scheduled for early next year will hide the nearby A22. The surrounding area will become a flower meadow.

It is Wealden’s second open access countryside area. District ouncillor Ann Newton said: “The area at the top of Owlsbury Park will remain unchanged except for a few extra trees, providing an ideal place to exercise while taking in some fine countryside views.

“To the north is Camp Hill on Ashdown Forest, to the south is Lewes and the South Downs.

“To enhance the community connection to Owlsbury Park, we have planted two orchards which we hope local people will use and enjoy.

“One features more traditional varieties which will include plums, cherries walnuts and quince. A second orchard, in the north of the park, will include modern varieties. As the fruit trees mature, the apples can be used both for fruit and pressing for juice.”

Many existing features are being restored to provide a reservoir of wildlife. A car park will be installed off Horsted Pond Road.