Highdown Gardens is a beautiful 8.5 acre historic garden set on the South Downs, widely regarded as perhaps the most important and rare chalk garden in the country. It supports a unique multi-genera plant collection of renowned horticultural significance, originally created by Sir Frederick Stern between 1909 and 1967. The gardens have since been maintained as a free-entry public garden by Worthing Borough Council, and have been enjoyed by visitors and the local community for over 50 years.
Following a successful funding bid to the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Highdown Gardens underwent a £1 million transformation, and PH Beck was appointed to carry out a wide-ranging programme of building and associated works to help bring the project to life. The scope was varied and required close coordination with the Council, heritage stakeholders and the on-site gardening team to ensure the works complemented the character and significance of the site.
Our works included the following:
All works were carefully planned and delivered with sensitivity to the surrounding environment, the historic nature of the gardens and the ongoing operation of the site. On completion, the Mayor of Worthing officially opened the new-look gardens by cutting the ribbon, telling guests that the site “held a special place in all our hearts.” It was a fitting tribute to a project that has enhanced both the visitor experience and the long-term future of this much-loved public garden.
Let’s talk about your building works and how we can help.
