The Horton Gardens Project Updates
7th August 2024
From the 12th of August phase one of the transformation of The Horton’s gardens will begin, this phase will last roughly 11 weeks and will lay the foundation for the gardens.
The Project
The grounds of The Horton, which have been closed to the public for three decades, will be transformed into a natural landscaped green space for everyone to enjoy.
The 11,000m2 gardens are currently in a poor state, with uneven ground, collapsed disused tunnels, a tangle of brambles and weeds and a crumbling concrete ‘road to nowhere’ cutting through the site.
As well as making the grounds safe and accessible to all, the project aims to create a tranquil and flexible outside area for visitors to enjoy and relax in.
Alongside creating new landscaped lawns and wildflower meadows the transformed gardens will continue to provide and improve the habitat for hedgerow birds, hedgehogs,bats and insects. A large hibernaculum will be created for green waste, providing safe areas for hibernating mammals, insects and reptiles.
Phase 1 – Landscaping
From the 12th of August phase one of the transformation of The Horton’s gardens will begin, this phase will last roughly 11 weeks and will lay the foundation for the gardens.
Brambles, weeds, thistles, excess grass and dock will be removed so the ground can be made ready for the new wildflower meadows and lawns. New paths will be built to ensure full access as well as wide stone steps down from the outdoor seating to the gardens.
Due to the nature of the groundwork the gardens will look unsightly during this phase, but come Spring the benefits of this work will begin to show as new grass and wildflowers appear.
All trees protected by preservation orders will remain untouched during the works.
Phase 2 – Planting
Over the Winter, with the help of the Surrey Countryside Partnership and volunteers, 200 metres of native hedgerow will be planted along the garden border as well as various larger trees around the site. This will give the best opportunity for growth in the Spring.
Phase 3 – Bringing the garden to life
We hope to be able to open the garden to the public in Summer 2025.
For the Horton Team and hardworking volunteers, the maintenance and improvement will be an ongoing project, ensuring a welcoming space for both visitors and wildlife.
As well as using the gardens to host outdoor events and performances, plans are in place to add sculpture walks, a small kitchen garden and unique natural creative
learning areas.
As a not-for-profit charity, The Horton will be continuing to raise funds for the maintenance and improvement of the gardens once the first two phases of the works are completed.
Fundraising
The Horton Gardens Project is made possible with grant funding from Your Fund Surrey (YFS)Large Community Projects Fund and support from Epsom & Ewell’s Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Fund.
As well as contributing to the cost of works carried out by specialist contractors, funding will help maintain the garden, as a not-for-profit charity The Horton will continue to fundraise to ensure the gardens are well maintained.
To make a donation to The Horton Gardens Project, please visit our Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) fundraising page.
If you wish to discuss making a larger individual gift or find out about how The Horton Gardens Project could become the nominated charity for your company please contact us and a senior member of the team will be in touch.
