On 30th March 2009 the British Environment Secretary, Mr Hilary Benn, announced the government's intention to declare the South Downs a 'National Park' thereby ending years of discussion and indecision about the future of this beautiful area of English countryside.

 

He confirmed his decision - and the boundaries of the park - on 12th November 2009 and the park will become a reality on 31st March 2010

 

                                    

 

The designation has been welcomed by hundreds of organisations concerned with the natural environment; amongst them :-

 

The R.S.P.B.

The Council for the Protection of Rural England

The Wildlife Trusts of Sussex, Hampshire & Isle of Wight

The W.W.F. in U.K.

The Youth Hostels Association

The Ramblers Association

The South Downs Society (formerly Sussex Downsmen)

Badger Trust

Butterfly Conservation

Sustrans Southeast

  ... and many, many more

 

A few politicians were against the decision.