Our History

The Petersfield Society was formed in July 1945 in recognition of growing local concern to restore towns and the countryside after the war. Whilst forward looking the Society therefore benefits from both history and experience. The Society has been influential in many important issues over the years concerning the built and rural environment in the area.

Examples include:

The Statue of William III in Petersfield Square - campaign to rescue, restore and maintain this historical statue in perpetuity.

East Meon bridges - successful challenge to the County Council's proposed design for rebuilding following recurrent flooding, ensuring the existing replacements incorporated local materials and features in keeping with this picturesque village.

Ashford and Ridge Hangers - persuading the County Council to purchase this central area of "Little Switzerland" in 1960, thus saving it from indiscriminate felling for future generations

A3 Petersfield and Liphook bypass - providing a voice for the public to successfully influence both the route and the construction materials used thus minimising noise pollution .

South Downs National Park - support for the inclusion of Petersfield in the proposal to make the South Downs a National Park.