The Countryside Agency has agreed a boundary for the park covering land across Sussex and Hampshire.

The proposal has received a mixed reception from councils inside the proposed boundaries.

Some councils such as Brighton and Hove have welcomed the plan, but seven other councils have objected and a public inquiry now seems inevitable.

We are confident that the decisions we have made are right and we will defend them if necessary

Countryside Agency

An original draft boundary was changed following a public consultation.

The new area now includes Woolmer Forest, Ditchling and Coney Hill.

Ewen Cameron, chairman of the Countryside Agency, said: "This is an important decision for the South Downs, for those who live and work there and for everybody who cares about this special part of the country, wherever they live.

"We are aware, however, that a number of local authorities have already indicated that they will oppose the designation.

"If this is the case, there will be a public inquiry before the secretary of state makes the final decision to confirm the Park.

"We are confident that the decisions we have made are right and we will defend them if necessary."