Welcome to the South Downs National Park

EVERYONE in the county should give a resounding welcome to the new South Downs National Park, which becomes official at midnight tonight.

It has been a long and hard fight, spanning 79 years to achieve this welcome status, which will protect some of the most beautiful countryside in Britain.

The West Sussex Gazette has consistently backed the fight, speaking out against West Sussex County Council's opposition, which forced an eventual public inquiry. We joined campaigners, acknowledging the importance National Park status will have for our beloved countryside in West Sussex and surrounding areas.

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The National Park, as a guardian of the land, will bring greater protection and funding to the area.

Covering an area more than 1,600 square kilometres, the South Downs National Park is the tenth National Park to be designated in England, offering an area of protected countryside that everyone can visit and enjoy.

The famous South Downs Way, loved by walkers, cyclists and horse riders, uniquely stretches the entire 160km length of the Park from Winchester in Hampshire to the white chalk cliffs of Beachy Head, near Eastbourne.

Richard Shaw, Interim Chief Executive for South Downs National Park Authority, said: "I'm delighted that we have reached this important milestone. The South Downs has been nationally recognised for its natural beauty and the space it offers for people to enjoy the countryside. This is why it has been made into a National Park."

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The South Downs National Park Authority is the lead organisation responsible for promoting the purposes of the National Park, working in partnership with other local authorities and organisations.

The authority has 27 members appointed from local authorities covering the Park, parish councillors, plus national members appointed by the Secretary of State. The authority will formally meet for the first time on April 20,

It will bring with it additional planning controls, which are welcomed because they will help National Park members look after the special character of the area. People living within the park area should benefit from a healthier local economy, with tourism attracted by the Park status bringing a new boost to the area.

There is bound to be increasing pressure on land in the future and the new authority will help to resist challenges and unwelcome development, preserving our heritage.

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The South Downs Society has announced a programme of spring walks to celebrate the coming of the National Park.

The first walk, on Wednesday April 14, presents a wonderful chance to enjoy the outstanding Sussex countryside and get closer to nature.

Jane Major, a spokesperson for the South Downs Society, said "Rain or shine put some strong shoes on and join our Lambing Time Walk on Wednesday April 14.

"Bring the children and a tea-time picnic and enjoy four miles of flat farmland walking at the foot of the glorious South Downs."

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"Leave the car at home and take the no 40 or 40X bus to Clayton Recreation Ground (OS map reference 122/298141) to meet the South Downs Society walk leader ready for a 1pm start.

"Sensible footwear and a waterproof jacket are recommended. Children should always be accompanied by an adult and dogs kept on a lead."

Other walks being organised by the South Downs Society can be found on their website www.southdownssociety.org.uk