Martinsfield
Three ELC smallholdings on a former maize field, East Sussex
📍East Sussex, United Kingdom
✓ established
Our Story
Martinsfield is an 18.5-acre ELC cluster next to Arlington village, Wealden, East Sussex (near Polegate). Bought February 2016 as a single maize field with mature hedges and compacted clay. Temporary planning for three agricultural-tied dwellings, a communal barn and off-grid power was granted August 2018. A 2025 appeal gave Aweside Farm permanent permission and renewed temporary consent on another plot — a useful planning precedent for the sector. Holdings have included Aweside Farm (edible flowers, heritage veg, herbs), Fanfield Farm / Allwood Farm, and Clearwater Farm. After steward moves, one plot was listed as available for 2026. Stewards have planted hedges and shelterbelts against wind and to rebuild biodiversity after years of maize.
Our Tribe
Community Life
Lifestyle Notes
Exposed clay field now broken into three working holdings. Wind and drainage are the daily design problem.
Membership & Governance
Decision Making
ELC CBS. Site under a shared management plan and Wealden planning ties.
Membership Process
ELC steward application: https://ecologicalland.coop/join-us/join-elc-as-an-ecological-farmer/. One plot flagged available around 2026.
Our Vision
Turn a worn-out arable field into three viable agroecological farms with secure, low-impact homes.