Fresh signage at Coulsdon South celebrates London’s newest nature reserve

New signs have been installed at a Southern station to highlight two local picturesque areas included in London’s newest nature reserve.

Coulsdon South now has two smart new signs following on from the launch of the new South London Downs National Nature Reserve (SLDNNR) this summer, which includes Farthing Downs and Happy Valley.

Chair of the Friends of Farthing Downs and Happy Valley Graham Lomas said: “I’m very pleased to see the new signs up at the station. Hopefully they will draw people’s attention to the wonderful open spaces within five minutes’ walk. It’s part of our commitment to making the public more aware of how accessible these downs are. The area is one of only three national nature reserves in London and it’s a special place.”

Friends volunteer Glynis Smith, who helps look after the station flower boxes, added: “People come from miles around to go walking and birdwatching. It does help to have signs up so people know they have got out at the right stop!”

Chair of East Surrey Transport Committee Charles King was among those who called for signs to be installed at Coulsdon South station to highlight the nearby wildlife havens, which include chalk grassland and rare wild flowers. Farthing Downs and Happy Valley are both classed as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Charles said: “During the course of the year, many people get off trains at Coulsdon South to visit Farthing Downs and Happy Valley, or walk the London Loop. These signs will put these places in the minds of the many thousands of passengers who travel through Coulsdon South every day.”

Southern’s Coulsdon South Station Manager Damien Ward said: “We’re pleased to be supporting the Friends of Farthing Downs and Happy Valley by installing smart new signs at the station. Farthing Downs and Happy Valley are popular with walkers, birdwatchers and those who simply want to escape city life to enjoy the green space. Getting there by train couldn’t be easier as it is just a short walk from the station.”

Superintendent of the Commons for the City of London Andy Barnard said: “The City of London Corporation, as owner of Farthing Downs, is delighted that these new signs have been installed through the efforts of the Friends of Farthing Downs and Happy Valley and East Coulsdon Residents Association. It is fantastic that in less than 30 minutes you can step off a train from central London and be in a national nature reserve with some of the finest views and chalk grasslands in the capital.These signs will help to raise awareness of this wonderful open space and encourage visitors and commuters alike to explore this landscape.”