Race on to buy Gallops

The Society of Sussex Downsmen, whose remit is to preserve the beauty of Downland, is leading the initiative by putting forward a campaign group of local interested parties. Among those included so far are the Friends of Lewes, Sussex Archaeological Society, Sussex Wildlife Trust and Lewes Archaeological Group.

Tom Hollobone, a council member of the Society of Sussex Downsmen, said 30 to 40 acres are available, these being in the ownership of two or more people, and that 'quite a lot of money' would be required to purchase the site.

'We are in the early stages, but it is important to do something if we can,' Mr Hollobone said.

A spokesman for Lewes District Council, which is joint owner of adjacent land at Landport Bottom, said the council 'has no interest whatsoever' in acquiring The Gallops.

A recent Residents' Priorities Survey commissioned by the council showed that residents placed priority on existing public parks and open spaces being maintained to a high standard, with improved facilities for youngsters, she added.

Cllr Ann De Vecchi, leader of the council, said: 'The fact that this land has come on to the market is of no consequence as far as we are concerned. It is fully protected by planning policies. We can see no benefit in local taxpayers' money being spent on its acquisition. Our resources are fully committed to the priorities that residents have chosen. We do not have the cash to spare on unnecessary purchases of land.'

Mr Hollobone pointed out that, although the land is currently protected by planning policies, it cannot be known what policies the government may have for such land in five or ten years' time.