About the National Park Authority

For the first time, one permanent organisation, the South Downs National Park Authority, will take lead responsibility for keeping the South Downs National Park a special place.

The South Downs National Park Authority will be a centrally-funded, public body run by a Board of 27 Members. The Authority will be able to make planning decisions and develop new projects & partnership programmes that promote the purposes of the South Downs National Park, which are:

1. To conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the area

2. To promote opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the Park’s special qualities by the public

In carrying out its role, the Authority has a duty to:

Seek to foster the economic and social well-being of the communities living within the National Park

There are 27 Authority Members comprised of:

• 14 nominated Councillors from the local authorities covering the Park
• 6 parish councillors from within the Park
• 7 national members appointed by the Secretary of State through an open recruitment process

The Members are now appointed. Click here to link through to our Members page.

Key Dates for the South Downs National Park Authority

1st April 2010 - Shadow Authority

Able to decide on key strategies and policies as well as the type of organisation and staff needed to carry out its purposes and duty.

1st April 2011 - Full Authority

Able to deliver programmes, work with partners and take decisions as the Local Planning Authority.

Authority staff and members will meet regularly to discuss issues.

There are four committees within South Downs National Park Authority -

• Audit Committee
• Planning Committee
• Resources & Performance Committee
• Standards Committee

For more details, including including forthcoming meetings, agendas and associated papers, please visit the Committees page.

Who is setting up the Authority?

The South Downs National Park Authority, led by interim Chief Executive Richard Shaw, is working to ensure the Authority’s Members are fully prepared and ready to take important strategic decisions for the Park and the organisation as soon as possible. A list of our current staff is available here, along with their job titles and contact details.

Working with many organisations in the South Downs, the team are developing the Authority’s role and functions for example in planning, countryside management, rights of way and community projects.

The National Park Authority realise how important it is to set up the right organisation for the South Downs National Park and the people that live and work here and enjoy the area.

If you would like to send us your views on the priorities and role of the new Authority then please go to 'Have your say'.