Police have arrested a man after a spate of damage to parking signs in Ashdown Forest.
Officers said the 56-year-old man was arrested on 19 October on suspicion of criminal damage, following a report of a car park sign being pulled off a wooden post and thrown into nearby bushes on 11 October.
He was interviewed and has been released on bail while the investigation is ongoing.
From November 2022 to October 2023, multiple reports have been received of parking signs being destroyed or damaged across the forest.
The reports began around the time that the Ashdown Forest Board of Conservators introduced charges in 44 parking areas.
At the time, forest managers said the world-famous location had "struggled with funding", with the board stating it was becoming increasingly unable to look after the forest and provide safe public access.
Today, October 25th, Mark Infield, Ashdown Forest’s Land Recovery Manager said:
"We welcome around 1.4 million visitors to the Forest every year.
"When they pay to park, they understand that they are making an important contribution to the protection of this unique landscape.
"Replacing the signs is costly and impacts on the amount of revenue generated.
"Paid parking was introduced to raise funds to improve Ashdown Forest for everyone and we remain committed to this.
"We would like to thank the person who apparently saw one of our signs being damaged and reported it to the police.
"We would also like to thank Sussex Police for their help and support, as we continue to work with them to keep the Forest safe and accessible for everyone.”
Police said that enquiries into the offences are continuing and anyone who witnesses any suspicious behaviour in the area, or who has any information relating to the damage, can make a report online, or by calling 101 quoting serial 47230200503.
Inspector Andy Barker, of the Rural Crime Team, added:
"The forest is one of the largest open areas in the South East, and a safe space for our communities and visitors to enjoy all year round.
"We are dedicated to keeping it this way and take all reports of criminality seriously."
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