The designation process for the proposed South Downs National Park has been put on hold while DEFRA appeals against a High Court judgment in respect of the New Forest National Park designation. Known as the “Meyrick” judgment, it has implications for any future National Park designations or boundary variations as it potentially changes the way in which the criteria for National Parks have generally been understood and interpreted since the first National Parks in England were designated.
DEFRA's appeal was heard by the Court of Appeal on 1 November and the outcome is now awaited. Only when that is resolved will the Secretary of State be able to decide how to re-start the South Downs process, including whether or not to invite further representations.