The concept and design of Oxstall Meadow Ecology Park as an educational resource for local schools and the wider community was the result of discussions between  Gosport Borough Council’s Landscape Architect, Paul Best, and Carol Lycett, the Countryside Ranger responsible for environmental education. Artworks and activities were seen as integral, and sculptors Richard Bent, Pete Codling, Ian Hunter, Jan O’Highway, and musicians Maggie O’Connor and Roger Watson of TAPS were involved from the beginning.

“Oxstall meadow, alongside the river Alver. The Alver Valley is a precious green space for Gosport, next to one of the highest densities of population in Europe with higher than average levels of social deprivation. Work started on the project in 1992 in a National recession when there was virtually no public sector funding available, so we had to be resourceful to stretch the funding as far as possible. We made up for lack of funding with a collaborative wealth of ideas and hard work. It was only possible due to the generous contribution of a number of dedicated creative people who believed in the value of environmental education and environmental sustainability.” Paul Best, May 2020

Grange Farm, Little Woodham Lane, Howe Road, Gosport, Hampshire PO13 8AB