New National Park Planned for the South Downs

1st April, 2009

Environment Secretary Hilary Benn today gave the go-ahead for the South Downs to become England’s ninth National Park. With another 2 in Scotland and 3 in Wales, which brings the UK total to 14.

The new 627 square mile protected area will be home to an estimated 120,000 people, stretching from Beachy Head to the edge of Winchester, in line with an independent inspector’s recommendations following a 19-month public inquiry.

A new South Downs National Park Authority is expected to be established by April 2010 and become fully operational a year later.

Hilary Benn said:

“Having considered the inspector's report and recommendations carefully, and agreed that the statutory criteria are met, I have decided that the South Downs including the so-called Western Weald should be confirmed as a National Park.

“It is fitting that in this year, the 60th anniversary of the radical legislation that gave birth to National Parks, we are celebrating an addition to the family.

"National Park status can be a real boost for the local economy, attracting new visitors, businesses and investment, but above all, the South Downs’ wonderful countryside will be protected forever for the enjoyment of everyone.”

Unlike in other countries like the USA, Canada and Australia, the National Parks of the UK are not vast wildernesses. They generally have sizable villages and sometimes market towns within them, and the national park status helps control development and protect the open space. Although they like 'big beasts' and huge vistas, they do contain some beautiful scenery and unique habitats and species.