Changing Places - Case Studies

Local place Case Study location

National; Alfriston is in the South-East of England, only a few kilometres North of the English Channel, and it is about 80km south of London

Regional; Alfriston is located in East Sussex, between Lewes and Eastbourne. The South Downs dominate the local topography, with Alfriston situated in the Cuckmere valley. To the North is the High Weald National Landscape. To the West is the large towns of Brighton, Hove, and Worthing. To the East is the large town of Eastbourne.

Local; Alfriston is located on the West bank of the Cuckmere river, it experiences heavy seasonal flooding as a result. To the North is Drusillas park, followed by flatter topography used for farming. To the East is Friston forest, beyond that is Eastbourne and Polegate. To the South is the meandering Cuckmere river, a hub for biodiversity and recreation.

Alfriston's change since the 1800s

Alfriston was historically focused along its narrow high street, home pubs, inns and skilled crafts. Beyond the high street was agricultural land use. Forward to the 1950s, there was a significant housing development to the West of Alfriston which gradually expanded up to today. The historical high street buildings have largely become listed to preserve Alfriston's place meaning.

Alfriston's economy

The high street is largely tertiary sector, serving the consistent flow of tourists (local and international). Neighbouring farmlands contribute to the primary sector economy, this can be attributed to the endogenous factors of Alfriston e.g. soil type and quality. Alfriston does not have a notable secondary sector as most manufacturing jobs have relocated or gone out of business e.g. blacksmithing

Alfriston's religion

Alfriston's population, of only 762, is 60% Christian, this 10% higher than the regional average and 14% higher than the national average, this high proportion of Christianity is reflected in the importance of the Church of St. Andrew.

Alfriston's demography

Alfriston's proportion of people aged over 65 is 27.5%, the national level is 18%. The quaint, rural setting of Alfriston may explain why pensioners settle there. The high dependency ratio has led to community care for pensioners, making Alfriston's sense of place a tight-knit community one.

Alfriston's political and social attitudes

Alfriston was part of the Lewes constituency that voted 52.1% to remain in the EU, this marginal result makes analysis difficult. The constituency consistently votes either Lib Dem or Tory, this reflects the area's high levels of retired, well-off socially liberal population.

Alfriston socio-economic factors

Alfriston is placed at the 6th decile for deprivation, with the 10th decile being most well-off. This reflects both the well-off elderly population of Alfriston but also the limitations in transport, public amenities and retail opportunities.