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.
