The Management Plan consultation is now open. It runs from 09 June until 01 August 2025.

1. The survey for organisations https://southdownsnationalparkpmp.commonplace.is/en-GB/proposals/v3/partners-organisations?step=step1
2. The survey for the public https://southdownsnationalparkpmp.commonplace.is/en-GB/proposals/v3/public?step=step1

The Plan presents ambitious overarching aims and objectives for the National Park for 2026-2031. The Plan is for everyone who lives in, works in, or cares for the South Downs. It will be delivered in partnership with lots of organisations.

The revised vision is designed to be sharper more engaging and aspirational.  

The South Downs National Park is a vibrant place with nature everywhere, for everyone, where wildlife flourishes, clean water flows and stars fill the dark night skies. The landscape is adapted to climate change and sits at the heart of thriving communities and a green rural economy. Shaped by stories old and new, this place inspires everyone to connect, enjoy, care and belong

The plan has 2 themes, 7 aims and 15 objectives. There are also clear targets for delivery against the objectives.

Theme 1 Climate and Nature

Aim 1: The National Park is a nature-rich, resilient working landscape where wildlife flourishes​

Aim 2: The South Downs National Park is on track to become net zero by 2045 by mitigating and adapting to the impacts of climate change​

Aim 3: Clean, abundant water supports nature and communities in the South Downs and beyond

Theme 2 People and Nature

Aim 4: Young people will have opportunities to access training and skills to enable them to take action to care for and enhance the National Park​

Aim 5: A valued South Downs is welcoming and accessible to all ​

Aim 6: Cultural Heritage is conserved, enjoyed, valued, created and passed on for future generations​

Aim 7: A thriving rural economy and local communities sit at the heart of the National Park

These grew very clearly out of the engagement with local communities, businesses, farmers and young people.

Everyone is encouraged to use our online platform to respond to the draft plan, but a word version is available on request for those who need another format.