People in Lewes and the surrounding area have been urged to tell the Government what they think about the planned South Downs national park.

Lewes District Council said it hoped as many people as possible would comment on the designation order, being published for four weeks on Monday.

About half the district is likely to be included in the park, including Lewes itself, unless there are major changes.

Planning councillor Nigel Small said: "The national park is one of the most important issues currently facing Lewes district.

"It will mean important changes to the way the Downs are managed and how local planning decisions are made. I hope people will take time to find out about the national park proposals and make their views known."

The Lib Dem controlled authority is one of only two councils to publicly back the park and will consider its own response on Monday.

Comments on the order, which can be viewed at council offices, should be sent to the Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

The Secretary of State will call a public inquiry if, as expected, any council objects.