When CAMS started, a key issue was the requirement to address problems of antisocial behaviour in Cobham Woods. The installation of physical barriers, along with support from the local community and police have been crucial in bringing to an end the long term problems of illegal motorbike scrambling and vandalism in what is a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Important milestones along the way have been the purchase of the Darnley Mausoleum and surrounding parkland (2001), the removal of 95 abandoned cars from Cobham Woods (2003), and the inclusion of the Darnley Mausoleum in the major BBC TV series Restoration, which greatly raised the profile of the area (2003).   Then in 2004, CAMS published the Cobham Park Conservation Plan, and subsequently secured funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund (£4.98 million) and the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (£746,000). These awards provided the key funding for implementing the Cobham Park Heritage Project.

The Cobham Park Heritage Project aims to reverse the many years of decline, vandalism and abuse that have occurred to one of Kent’s great estates, Cobham Park, along with restoring landscape and architectural features, which represent heritage and nature conservation assets of national importance.  In addition to conservation-based works, the project is also providing new opportunities for recreation, countryside access and education adjacent to urban areas in need of sustainable regeneration. The access network throughout Cobham Park is being enhanced with the creation of new routes, on-site interpretation, and the publication of leaflets and guides. One of the most important aspects of the project to be implemented has been the appointment of a Countryside Warden. The Warden’s role is centred on developing links with all the local communities, increasing public involvement in the project, and building a programme of walks, talks, and other events.

Phase 1 of the Cobham Park Heritage Project was substantially completed in 2007, with remaining works intended to be complete in early 2008.  Funding for Phase 2 and the ultimate completion of the Project was awarded in September 2007 by the Department of Communties and Local Government.  These works will include the restoration of internal decorative features in the Darnley Mausoleum, the repair and conversion of a barn at South Lodge to provide limited visitor facilities and staff accommodation, as well as further works to the historic landscapes of Cobham Park including access improvements.  It is expected that Phase 2 will be completed in 2008/2009. On completion of the repairs to the Darnley Mausoleum the National Trust will take up ownership of the mausoleum and the surrounding 200 acres of Cobham Wood, and will provide the resources necessary for their long term management.