New facilities officially unveiled at Banstead Commons Conservators’ Depot

September 2026

Banstead Commons Conservators were delighted to welcome the Mayor of the Borough of Reigate and Banstead, Councillor Nick Harrison, together with Borough Councillors, Conservators and members of the volunteer team, to the Conservators’ Depot on Friday 4 September for the official unveiling of the organisation’s new office and welfare facilities.

The improvements have been made possible through funding from the Reigate and Banstead Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), providing a much-needed modern and functional base for the Conservators’ staff.

The event began with an introduction from John Mill, Chair of the Banstead Commons Conservators, who outlined the role of the Conservators and the importance of the new facilities in providing vital infrastructure and welfare facilities for the operational team who work across the four sites.

Following the formal unveiling of the new facilities, the Conservators’ Clerk and General Manager, Lucy Shea, led guests on a tour of the depot, showcasing the improvements and explaining how the facilities support the Conservators’ work.

Guests then heard from Senior Keeper Gary, who gave an insight into the varied management work undertaken by the Keeper team throughout the year. From habitat management and vegetation clearance to maintaining infrastructure, managing grazing and responding to issues across the sites, the presentation highlighted the breadth of work involved in caring for the Commons and ensuring they remain safe, attractive and accessible open spaces for people to enjoy, while also protecting their important habitats and wildlife.

The event was attended by Mayor Nick Harrison; Councillors Tim Snuggs and Zelanie Cooper; Conservators John Mill (Chair), David Hatcher, Councillor Peter Harp, Rachel Barnes and Angela Lewis; as well as valued members of the Conservators’ volunteer team, Ian and Clare along with Sean Grufferty from the Downlands Grazing Partnership.

The gathering also provided an opportunity for informal networking and discussion about the value and importance of the Borough’s green spaces. Refreshments and cake were enjoyed by guests following the tour and presentations, providing an opportunity to reflect on the project and the contribution that the Commons make to the local community.

The Banstead Commons Conservators manage approximately 1,350 acres of protected open space, caring for these special landscapes for both people and wildlife. The depot is central to this work, providing a base for the team as well as essential storage for the machinery, grazing infrastructure, tools and equipment needed to maintain and protect the Commons.

Banstead Commons Conservators would like to thank Reigate and Banstead Borough Council for the CIL funding which has helped make these improvements possible, and everyone who joined us to mark this important milestone.