Alde Valley Nature & Culture Partnership

The Alde Valley is one of Suffolk's most precious landscapes, where nature, farming, heritage and culture have evolved together over centuries. Its meadows, ancient hedgerows, veteran oaks, ponds and historic settlements support an extraordinary diversity of wildlife, while its surrounding towns and villages are home to internationally recognised music, art, literature and creative enterprise. Together they form one of Britain's richest and most distinctive cultural landscapes.

As the gateway to the Alde Valley, Saxmundham occupies a unique position. Within just a few miles lie world-class cultural institutions, internationally important wildlife habitats, the Heritage Coast and a thriving network of independent businesses. Across Britain, comparable places have demonstrated that investing in landscape, culture and heritage can generate sustainable economic growth, create skilled employment and strengthen local communities.  We believe the Alde Valley represents Saxmundham's best opportunity to prosper.

As the Suffolk coast undergoes unprecedented change through major energy and infrastructure projects, it is more important than ever that future development is guided by careful planning, sound evidence and a long-term vision. Rather than pursuing growth that could take place almost anywhere, we believe the greatest opportunity lies in recognising, connecting and promoting the exceptional assets that already exist.

Our vision is for an Alde Valley where nature, communities and sustainable businesses thrive together. By supporting nature recovery, regenerative farming, tourism, arts, heritage, education and locally rooted enterprise, we believe that Saxmundham and the Alde Valley can become a national example of how environmental stewardship and economic prosperity reinforce one another, creating lasting benefits for everyone who lives, works and visits here.

Read our document on a shared vision for the future of Saxmundham and the Alde Valley