Wild About Heathfield are hoping to make our town greener and wilder
A new community nature group is inviting people across Heathfield and the surrounding villages to get involved in protecting local wildlife, enjoying green spaces and making the town a better place for nature.
Inspired by the success of Wild About Burwash and similar groups springing up across the High Weald, Wild About Heathfield (WAH) is bringing local people together around a shared love of the natural environment.
The idea first took shape in April, and by June the organisers were gathering interest at a screening of The People’s Emergency Briefing. In August, they took to Le Marché to ask residents what mattered most to them about Heathfield’s green spaces and natural surroundings.
The WAH officially launched on 19 September at Union Church Hall, with a well-attended gathering of local residents keen to find out more. The group was very grateful to Reverend Vicky Martin for the offer of the space.
Its mission is simple: to connect people, nature and community for a greener, wilder Heathfield.
One bird particularly close to the group’s heart is the cuckoo, which has a special place in Heathfield’s history but is now sadly on the UK’s red list of birds of conservation concern.
Wild About Heathfield hopes to encourage more people to discover and protect the wildlife on their doorstep. Plans include regular public meetings, guest speakers and informal nature-related activities.
Discover the Magic of Dark Skies – Monday 9 November
Have you ever wondered how much of the night sky we’re missing because of artificial lighting?
On Monday 9 November, local residents are invited to discover why darker skies matter, not just for stargazing but for the wildlife that comes alive after sunset.
David Field will give a talk exploring the benefits of reducing light pollution and how this could work in a busy town like Heathfield.
Parishes across the High Weald are working together, with David’s guidance, on a joint application to have the area recognised as a certified Dark Skies Community.
From bats and moths to other nocturnal wildlife, reducing unnecessary artificial light can make a real difference to the natural environment.
Event details
- Date: Monday 9 November 2026
- Time: 7pm
- Venue: Heathfield Community Centre, Sheepsetting Lane, TN21 0XG
- Who can attend: Parish councillors and members of the public
Whether you’re fascinated by the stars, passionate about wildlife or simply curious about how Heathfield could become a darker, more nature-friendly place, everyone interested is encouraged to come along.
Come along to the next Wild About Heathfield meeting
Wild About Heathfield’s next public meeting takes place on Saturday 21 November at 11.30am at Union Church Hall.
There are plans for a keynote speaker, an update from the Dark Skies presentation and an opportunity to meet others who care about the local environment. Refreshments will also be available, with a full programme to be announced nearer the date.
You don’t need to be a wildlife expert or an experienced environmental campaigner to take part. Whether you enjoy walking in the countryside, gardening for wildlife, watching birds or simply want to see Heathfield’s green spaces thrive, there’s a place for you.
Want to get involved?
Wild About Heathfield welcomes everyone from Heathfield and neighbouring villages. The group also has an active WhatsApp community, a Facebook group and page, and provides regular updates by email.
To find out more or join the group, email info@wildaboutheathfield.org.uk.
Small local actions can make a big difference, and Wild About Heathfield hopes that together, residents can help nature flourish right on their doorstep.
