Natural England

11 February 2008

An area of iconic English landscape almost as big as the Isle of Wight could be at risk if a revised South Downs National Park boundary is accepted, warned Natural England ahead of the re-opening of the public inquiry on Tuesday 12 February.

Sir Martin Doughty, Chair of Natural England, said: “This is the final chapter in securing a long awaited South Downs National Park, but if the story is going to have a happy ending, the Western Weald must be included in the designation."

“Natural England has always maintained that the smaller boundary is the wrong decision and it is high time we awarded the South Downs the elite National Park status it deserves. We need to get this right."

“This unique piece of countryside is an important haven for people and the natural environment - it supports one of the world’s leading regional economies and provides an escape from hectic London life,” concluded Sir Martin

The Inspector’s grounds for excluding the Western Weald are based on differing geology and are not consistent with already designated National Parks such as the Peak District and Lake District which contain more than one landscape character.

"This unique piece of countryside is an important haven for people and the natural environment "

Natural England will be giving evidence during the public inquiry in support of a South Downs National Park that includes the rolling grassland and sandstone forests of the Western Weald.

Those who have made representations in the recent consultation will be invited to voice their opinions at the re-opening of the public inquiry on 12 February and Natural England is encouraging supporters to speak up for the Western Weald.

Following the public inquiry the Inspector will submit proposals to the Environment Secretary who will make the final decision on the boundary for the South Downs National Park.

See Press release for further details.