The restoration of a Rural Relic - Strawberry Wood Culvert

A hidden treasure, which helps to tell the story of the rich history of the High Weald near Benenden, was discovered over ten years ago in the deliciously named Strawberry Wood. Since then it has been the subject of much intrigue and discussion, which has inevitably sparked extensive research about its purpose.

Towards the end of 2007, with the structure near to colapse, the threat of this historical feature being lost was realised. Through a lot of hard work and patience from both the Benenden Amenity and Countryside Society, and the Kent High Weald Partnership, funding has been secured to carry out the restoration and research of the culvert as well as to host other community related activities.  Funding has come from 2 main sources, the majority of which from the Heritage Lottery Fund and a significant contribution from Tunbridge Wells Borough Council ‘Heritage Grant Scheme’. The Kent High Weald Partnership will be co-ordinating the project.

"This project will restore and conserve a remarkable stone culvert which takes a long-disused woodland road across one of the steep gills (valleys) so characteristic of the High Weald.  The culvert may have associations with the iron industry and this is one of the things, which the project hopes to unravel. The project will also enable the development of educational visits, heritage trails and information for the general public to raise awareness of the area's rich history."

Michelle Davies, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund South East England

“We are really excited to be involved in bringing a local heritage feature alive and engaging the local community in the process of discovery.”

Jason Adams Kent High Weald Partnership Manager