Ashdown Forest Commoners Summoned for Annual Gathering and Key Conservator Election
The Commoners of Ashdown Forest have received a formal invitation to attend their annual general meeting, a pivotal event for conducting general business and electing a new conservator to the Board of Conservators. This notice has been publicly disseminated through the Public Notice Portal and featured in the Kent & Sussex Courier, ensuring broad awareness among the community.
Meeting Details and Agenda
The gathering is scheduled for Friday, March 6, 2026, at 7.30pm, and will be held at the Nutley Memorial Hall in Nutley, East Sussex. The agenda for the evening will encompass:
- A review and discussion of the general affairs pertaining to the Commoners and the forest's management.
- The election of one Conservator, a crucial role responsible for the governance and stewardship of Ashdown Forest. This position becomes vacant as Ms Liz Maudslay retires by rotation, marking a significant transition in the board's leadership.
Nomination and Voting Procedures
For Commoners interested in standing for election as a Conservator, it is imperative that completed nomination forms reach the Clerk by the deadline of Friday, February 13, 2026. Prospective candidates are advised to confirm their eligibility and the specific nomination criteria directly with the Clerk or through official guidance provided by the Ashdown Forest Centre to ensure compliance.
Additionally, those who wish to vote by post must submit a written notice by Friday, February 20, 2026. All correspondence, including nomination forms and postal vote notices, should be directed to:
Mark Pearson, Clerk to the Board of Conservators, Ashdown Forest Centre, Wych Cross, Forest Row, RH18 5JP.
Governance and Community Engagement
The Board of Conservators plays a vital role in overseeing the governance and stewardship of Ashdown Forest, a cherished natural resource in East Sussex. The annual meeting and election are instrumental in shaping priorities and strategies for the upcoming year, influencing conservation efforts and community initiatives.
Commoners or stakeholders who have concerns or believe they may be adversely impacted by matters discussed are encouraged to engage proactively. They can contact the Clerk in writing at the Ashdown Forest Centre or raise issues directly during the meeting, fostering an open and inclusive dialogue.
Access to Further Information
Complete details of this notice are available on the Public Notice Portal listing and in the print edition of the Kent & Sussex Courier. Individuals seeking the full wording or any subsequent clarifications should refer to these official sources. The notice was officially issued on January 30, 2026, underscoring the timeliness of this call to action for the Ashdown Forest community.
This annual event not only reinforces the democratic processes within the Commoners' framework but also highlights the ongoing commitment to preserving and managing Ashdown Forest for future generations, ensuring its ecological and cultural significance is upheld through collaborative governance.
