31 March 2009 - Responding to today’s announcement by Defra that the South Downs area is to be given national park status, the region’s Green MEP Caroline Lucas said:

"It’s baffling that we’ve had to wait almost 60 years for it, but I wholeheartedly welcome today’s decision to finally give the South Downs area the highest possible level of environmental protection.

"There is now an excellent set of protective measures in place here – including the EU’s Habitats Directive – to ensure that the valuable natural heritage.of this area is not negatively affected by future developments or planning applications.– which would represent an additional success for local campaigners.

"I am particularly thrilled to see that the Western Weald, Lewes and Ditchling are all to be included within the new park boundaries, with even further additions possible. The new park could be even larger than the two existing Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty

"It’s clear that today’s decision represents a massive achievement for the dedicated South Downs Campaign, which has fought long and hard to make this a reality for residents and visitors to the area. "

She concluded: "Defra must now step up efforts to complete the consultation process and confirm the national park designation order as soon as possible, so that the local economy can start to feel the benefits. It would be a shame to have to wait a further two years or more for the park to be formally created, now that the decision has been made."

ENDS