Raylands Park, a family-owned holiday caravan park nestled in the picturesque West Sussex countryside just three miles from Horsham Town Centre, is proud to announce its ongoing commitment to environmental conservation and rewilding efforts. For nearly 50 years, Raylands Park has been a haven for nature enthusiasts to come on holiday, and over the past 15 years, the park has undergone a remarkable transformation, cultivating a thriving environment for wildlife.
Rewilding Efforts Bring Abundant Wildlife to Raylands Park
Through a series of rewilding initiatives, Raylands Park has attracted a rich variety of wildlife, including birds of prey, bats, hedgehogs, honey bees, butterflies, and countless other species. The park’s management team, who have always been passionate about preserving the natural environment, have worked tirelessly to enhance the park’s natural beauty while promoting biodiversity.
Protecting the Environment
Raylands Park has long been dedicated to environmental stewardship. The park’s owners began their sustainability efforts by replacing old, inefficient waste treatment plants with eco-friendly systems that rely on natural bacteria. The park also transitioned to using environmentally friendly cleaning products and implemented extensive recycling programs, enabling holiday home owners to recycle a much wider range of materials than is typically possible with domestic facilities.
In a bid to reduce harmful emissions, Raylands Park has transitioned to using battery-operated machinery for park maintenance, including hedge cutters and strimmers. Thanks to a grant from Horsham District Council’s LEAP funding, the park also introduced a battery-operated vehicle to replace a diesel truck, further reducing emissions and fostering a more peaceful environment for both visitors and local wildlife.
Promoting Local Wildlife
One of the most exciting aspects of Raylands Park’s rewilding efforts has been its collaboration with Wilder Horsham, part of Horsham District Council. Together, they have planted native trees and hedgerows, creating wildlife-friendly habitats throughout the park.
Raylands Park has become a sanctuary for birds of prey, with a number of bird boxes installed to encourage species like Tawny Owls, Barn Owls, Kestrels, and Little Owls to call the park home. The park is also home to a thriving hedgehog population, with sustainable hedgehog houses and refuge areas provided in collaboration with Rangers Lodge. Holiday home owners have been educated on how to care for hedgehogs, ensuring their continued well-being.
Bat populations have flourished at Raylands Park, with bat boxes strategically placed around the park, and it’s not uncommon for visitors to spot these fascinating creatures darting through the night sky. Additionally, the park boasts its own beehives, which produce delicious honey, available for purchase at the park.
The Raylands Experience
For many holiday home owners, Raylands Park is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Set in the unspoiled, rural beauty of Southwater, the park offers a peaceful retreat where owners can enjoy the natural surroundings and the abundant wildlife. Thanks to the efforts of Southwater Parish Council and Horsham District Council, this tranquil area has remained protected from overdevelopment.
Raylands Park’s ongoing rewilding initiatives have not only contributed to the park’s environmental health but also enriched the experience for owners, who regularly witness the return of birds of prey, songbirds, hedgehogs, and a host of other local species.
“We are proud to see how our rewilding efforts have transformed Raylands Park into a flourishing wildlife haven,” said Rosie Kent , Managing Director of Raylands Park. “Our mission has always been to ensure that the park is a beautiful, peaceful place for both our visitors and the creatures that call it home. We look forward to continuing our efforts to protect and nurture the natural environment for generations to come.”
About Raylands Park
Raylands Park is a family-owned holiday caravan park situated in the heart of rural Southwater, West Sussex, just a short distance from Horsham Town Centre. Established nearly 50 years ago, the park is home to a collection of privately owned static holiday homes. Raylands Park has earned a reputation for its commitment to environmental conservation and has become a haven for wildlife and nature lovers alike.
