Our Annual Report 2026 is now available
September 2026
We are pleased to share the Banstead Commons Conservators Annual Report 2026, offering an insight into the work that goes on throughout the year to care for, protect and manage our much-loved Commons.
From conservation and habitat management to public access, community engagement and the day-to-day practical work needed to look after more than 1,300 acres of open space, there is a great deal happening across Banstead Heath, Banstead Downs, Park Downs and Burgh Heath.
A year of caring for the Commons
Our Annual Report brings together some of the key work undertaken during the year, including:
- Protecting our precious habitats – continuing practical conservation work to maintain and restore our chalk downland and heathland, including scrub clearance and tree popping to protect valuable open habitats.
- Conservation grazing – working with grazing partners to support year-round conservation grazing, helping to maintain the special ecology of our chalk downlands.
- Working with volunteers and the community – from regular work parties and wildlife monitoring to events and opportunities to get involved, volunteers continue to make a valuable contribution to the Commons.
- Supporting public enjoyment and access – maintaining the Commons as places where people can walk, enjoy nature and spend time outdoors, while balancing recreational use with the protection of sensitive habitats and wildlife.
- Looking after the future of the Commons – continuing to seek funding and develop the resources and facilities needed to carry out our statutory responsibilities effectively.
The report also provides an overview of our governance and finances, helping to give our community a clearer picture of how the Conservators operate and the resources that support our work.
A lot happens behind the scenes
Much of the work involved in caring for the Commons isn’t always visible when you’re out enjoying them. Managing these landscapes involves everything from practical habitat management and infrastructure maintenance to monitoring wildlife, coordinating volunteers, working with partner organisations and responding to issues reported by members of the public.
Our Annual Report provides an opportunity to look behind the scenes and see the breadth of work involved in keeping the Commons protected, accessible and cared for.
We are grateful to everyone who has contributed to this work over the past year – our staff, Conservators, volunteers, grazing partners, wildlife monitors, community groups and the many members of the public who support and care about the Commons.
Click here to read the full BCC Annual Report 2026
We hope you enjoy reading about the work that goes into caring for these special open spaces and the wildlife and communities they support.