20/04/2026 12:00 PM
Staverton Nursery in Lewes is a place with deep roots in the local community. Established in 1916, this family run nursery and garden centre has been serving generations of gardeners for more than a century. Set in the beautiful countryside of East Sussex, the site combines planting expertise, a welcoming garden centre, and a popular café with outdoor seating that allows visitors to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
As part of ongoing improvements to the site, the garden centre recently expanded its car park. This expansion was an important step in supporting increased visitor numbers, particularly during peak gardening seasons. However, the location of the site meant that careful consideration needed to be given to neighbouring residential properties situated alongside the garden centre.
To address this, a high quality acoustic fencing solution was installed, ensuring the garden centre could continue to grow while maintaining a peaceful environment for nearby residents.
The acoustic fencing installation
The project involved the installation of a 2.4 metre high 35 metre run of acoustic fencing. The system specified was a Jakoustic® reflective acoustic barrier, chosen for its proven noise reduction performance and robust construction.
The acoustic boards were installed on timber tuning fork posts, providing strength and long term durability. Black steel spur supports were used to ensure a secure and stable installation, with minimal disruption to the surrounding landscape.
An established hedge runs along the far side of the fence, helping the timber acoustic fencing sit naturally within the rural setting. In front, a new flower bed and young trees have been planted and over time the acoustic fence will become an attractive backdrop that blends seamlessly into the garden centre environment.
While acoustic fencing is first and foremost a functional addition, this project demonstrates how it can also contribute to a welcoming and professional finish. Customers arrive to a car park that feels well designed and cared for, while neighbours benefit from a quieter and more private boundary between their homes and the garden centre.
Why install acoustic fencing at a garden centre car park
With residential houses located next to the site, managing sound from the expanded car park was a key priority. Thanks to the installation of acoustic fencing, neighbours can continue to enjoy their countryside gardens without the disruption that can sometimes come from increased visitor numbers.
At the same time, the garden centre does not need to worry about the everyday noise it naturally creates. From customers arriving and leaving, to activity around the café and outdoor seating area, the acoustic fencing provides confidence that noise levels are being responsibly managed.
Garden centres can generate surprising levels of noise, especially if they are close to residential housing. Even in rural settings, car parks can become a source of disruption without proper mitigation measures in place. For example, car engines starting and idling, doors slamming, and trolleys rattling as customers move plants and products to their vehicles. Delivery lorries and forklifts are another common source of sound, particularly when early morning deliveries are required. Seasonal peaks during weekends and in spring and summer can significantly increase traffic levels, especially following a car park expansion.
Here, acoustic fencing plays an important role in reducing the impact of everyday operational noise from vehicles, deliveries, and visitor activity. It works by reflecting noise away from its carefully developed profile. It is formed from heavy section planed timber V shaped boards that slot together to minimise gaps where sound could otherwise escape. Offering up to 28 dB of noise reduction, the acoustic fencing is an ideal solution for a busy garden centre setting close to residential homes.
Even where noise levels are technically compliant, installing acoustic fencing demonstrates a strong sense of community responsibility. It shows proactive management and a willingness to invest in mitigation rather than reacting to problems after they arise. For businesses operating long term in mixed use areas, this approach can be invaluable.
A thoughtful and future proof solution
The acoustic fencing installed at Staverton Nursery is a clear example of how practical infrastructure improvements can be delivered with care and foresight. The fence reduces noise, supports neighbour wellbeing, and maintains the calm countryside atmosphere that makes the garden centre such a special destination.
With planting already in place and more growth to come, the acoustic fencing will continue to improve in appearance over time, while the durability of the system ensures it will perform reliably for years to come. Backed by a 25 year guarantee, the acoustic fencing provides long term peace of mind for Staverton Nursery, supporting both the site’s appearance and its ongoing commitment to managing noise responsibly.
For Staverton Nursery, this project supports ongoing success while respecting the history of the site and the needs of the surrounding community. For visitors and neighbours alike, it ensures the garden centre remains a place to enjoy for many years to come.
Related content:
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Read this project about acoustic fencing restoring peace for residents living beside a busy main road.
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Read more about how our Jakoustic® fencing can reduce noise and why it’s the perfect solution for blocking unwanted noise.
Georgia is a part of the Jacksons residential marketing team, writing regular columns on gardening, garden design and everything that is garden fencing, gates and structures.