Green councillors are trying to get more sites on the South Downs included in the proposed national park.

They are asking members of Brighton and Hove City Council to change the recommendations made on the boundaries of the park when the authority was controlled by Labour.

The motion, before councillors on September 25, aims to put a stop to building on any of these sites.

If it is agreed, a final decision on where the council would like boundaries to be will be made at the policy committee meeting on October 22.

Green convenor Councillor Keith Taylor said: "The South Downs are a precious once-only resource.

"With more Greens on the new council, we now have a chance to guarantee permanent protection.

"The resources that national park status will bring will ensure downland protection and restoration and preserve their existing recreational uses.

"We hope that all local politicians will support our bid and preserve the Downs we know and love for future generations."

The motion says areas which should be included are: Whitehawk Hill and Sheepcote Valley; the chalk clifftops and undercliff from Black Rock to Saltdean; the edges of Hollingbury Hill, including Hollingbury Park; Ladies Mile local nature reserve, Patcham; Toad's Hole Valley; Benfield Valley; Mile Oak's urban fringe.

Thursday September 18, 2003