A strategic analysis of accessible natural greenspace for the South Downs National Park which explores access management issues in an area where protected landscapes, with habitats that are access sensitive, are adjacent to some extensive dense urban areas.

Focusing on the 14 districts within or adjacent to the new South Downs National Park, this study uses the Accessible Natural Greenspace standards (ANGSt) to identify where the access network is deficient and, for Chichester District (a more detailed case study), focuses on the influence of major development, health and 'access sensitive' biodiversity sites.

At a strategic level, this analysis is intended to strengthen LDFs and provide the foundation for future GI Strategies, including the development of the new Local Development Framework (LDF) for the National Park. It will also support the delivery of Rights of Way Improvement Plans, facilitate cross boundary working between government agencies and local authorities and make the case for investment by providing a robust, objective means for targeting investment (which can be used in conjunction with more subjective methods) and by demonstrating potential economies of scale. The study follows a successful pilot project in north Kent and continues to develop and test methods for assessing the application of ANGSt.

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