Nature is the heartbeat of a healthy planet and in Mole Valley, it’s thriving thanks to the incredible efforts of local organisations, volunteers, and community champions. The Nature & Biodiversity category of the Mole Valley Sustainability Awards celebrates those who are planting trees, restoring habitats, conserving green spaces, and helping wildlife flourish.
These projects don’t just beautify our surroundings they strengthen ecosystems, bring people together, and inspire a deeper connection with the natural world. Here are just a few of the remarkable groups making a lasting impact:
🌿 Friends of Ashtead Rye Meadows Wetlands
Flowing through Ashtead Common and Leatherhead, the Rye Brook is a vital part of our local landscape. The Friends of Rye Meadows work tirelessly to maintain and protect this precious wetland, ensuring it remains a haven for wildlife and a peaceful retreat for the community.
Blending conservation with heritage, the Friends of Deepdene are restoring the historic Hope family legacy on the old Deepdene Estate. Their work not only preserves local history but also nurtures biodiversity across this unique green space in Dorking.
💙 Bookham & Fetcham Blue Hearts Wildflower Verges
This community project is transforming roadside verges into vibrant wildflower habitats. Marked by blue hearts, these spaces support pollinators and bring bursts of colour to everyday journeys.
🌼 Leigh & District Cottage Garden Society
Rooted in tradition and community spirit, this society encourages the cultivation of vegetables, fruits, and flowers while keeping home crafts alive. Their seasonal shows and year-round volunteer efforts make Leigh a welcoming and vibrant place to grow literally and figuratively.
Nestled near Box Hill, Patchwork Garden is a social horticultural project offering gardening, crafting, and skill-building in a safe, inclusive space. Supporting over 90 individuals and 50 volunteers, it’s a shining example of how nature can heal, empower, and connect.
🌺 Downs Solicitors Heritage Garden
Lovingly restored to reflect its 1800s origins, this garden is generously opened to the public for events, celebrations, and charity fundraisers. It’s a tranquil sanctuary that blends history, horticulture, and hospitality.
From litter picks and planter renovations to hanging baskets and Christmas trees, Hello Dorking is on a mission to make the town bloom. With support from local businesses and CIL funding, they’re introducing sustainable planting schemes and enhancing neglected spaces. Their Walking Festival and Steps Challenge also encourage residents to explore the town on foot proving that nature and wellbeing go hand in hand.
Frances and Chris have planted thousands of trees along Bookham’s verges, working closely with Surrey County Council. They encourage residents to request new plantings and help care for young trees, especially during dry summers. They also review local planning applications to protect trees in the community.
Julia Dickinson uncovered chalk streams in Bookham and nearby areas, vital habitats protected from pollution but threatened by development. She partners with the South East River Trust to fundraise for water testing kits, helping trace pollution sources and safeguard these delicate and important waterways.
These organisations are sowing the seeds of change one garden, planter, and wildflower verge at a time. Their dedication is helping Mole Valley grow into a greener, more vibrant place for everyone.
Reserve your tickets for the Mole Valley Sustainability Awards Event though the ticket tailor website HERE.
