The gathering in Petersfield to celebrate the new park authority. Photo: ©Chris Pearsall Photography
Britain’s newest national park went official today, as the South Downs National Park Authority took up the running of the stretch of land between Winchester and Eastbourne.
The new park, created under the previous Labour Government after years of pressure, covers 1,600 sq km (618 sq miles) and, uniquely for a British national park, has 85 per cent of its area as farmed land.
The South Downs park contains the famous chalk cliffs of Beachy Head and large tracts of open heath, rolling downland and ancient woodland.
The South Downs Way is the only national trail lying completely within a single national park.
Margaret Paren, chair of the new authority, said: “This is a long-awaited and historic day for everyone who loves the South Downs.
“Given the unique character of the national park, over the past year we have been developing our approach for the future in close consultation with local communities, environmental groups and landowners.
“As the new authority, we have statutory purposes and socio-economic duties which we will be working hard to fulfil. By working together, we can all protect and enhance the national park for residents and visitors today and future generations to come.”
The official takeover by the authority was marked by celebrations at Petersfield. The new South Downs National Park flag was flown from the town’s St Peter’s Church and a choir of 140 schoolchildren sang a special song to celebrate the new Park. The music to the song was composed by Jonathan Willcocks and lyrics written by Philip Young.
Ms Paren rang a handbell to start a peal of bells at churches across the area.
The town square also featured a giant map of the new park.
East Hampshire Conservative MP Damian Hinds said: “This was a brilliant effort and it was great to hear the children singing. We have not only put Petersfield on the map but put the map on Petersfield.”
Supporters also took part in an 8km (5-mile walk) from East Dean to Birling Gap.
The national park has been under the control of a shadow authority for the last year.
