South Downs to get National Park status in UK

March 31, 2009

The South Downs, an area of chalk downland in southern England is to gain National Park status under measures announced earlier today. In the announcement, Environment Secretary Hillary Benn was quoted as saying "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."

The designation has not been met with approval by some. Nigel Waterson, an MP for nearby Eastbournce, alleges to Channel 4 News that "ministers have ignored the views of almost all local authorities in the area, as well as local people."

The new park and associated management is expected to be in place in two years' time.