The South Downs National Park came into effect in April 2011. It stretches from Winchester in the west to Eastbourne in the east and includes the East Sussex town of Lewes.
The South Downs National Park Authority (SDNPA) is now responsible for all planning matters in the National Park area – see Planning in the South Downs National Park.
What are National Parks?
National Parks are areas of protected countryside that everyone can visit and enjoy. There are 15 of them across the UK.
They are each looked after by their own National Park Authority, who are responsible for:
- conserving and enhancing the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the area
- promoting opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the Park by the public.
They also work with local authorities and other organisations to look after the economic and social well-being of the communities within their boundaries.
More information
To find out more about the South Downs National Park, including visitor information and maps, see the South Downs National Park Authority website.
For information about other National Parks see the website National Parks in the UK.
East Sussex County Council