As a former MP who successfully lobbied the last Labour government to create the South Downs National Park, and as a Ditchling Road resident, I must agree with The Argus that some of Brighton and Hove City Council’s plans to improve access to the park are “bizarre” and “puzzling” (August 20).

The gravel footpath, more bus stops, layby picnic areas and courtesy crossing points should encourage a wide range of people to enjoy and explore the area between Woodbourne Avenue and Coldean Lane and beyond.

Safety improvements for drivers, cyclists and walkers at Old Boat Corner are long-overdue.

But, with cycle lanes proposed in both directions, there is no justification for making walkers share a path with cyclists. There is already a real problem with cyclists using the pavement in parts of Brighton, including Ditchling Road. There’s no case for giving official approval to them, especially where there are cycle lanes.

Ditchling Road is one of the busiest routes into the city, which makes the proposed removal of road markings and the open grazing of cattle on both sides of the road not just “puzzling” but also dangerous.

Mr Alderton of the Local Action Team rightly points out open grazing would prohibit dog walkers. It could also deter walkers from venturing away from the road, thus defeating the aim of encouraging access while making the road more dangerous.

As a non-driver and a non-cyclist I am pleased the council and the National Trust already work with the bus company to provide a bus to Ditchling Beacon over weekends and some public holidays. To really encourage sustainable access, some of the funding would be better used to extend this service to weekdays as well – and not only in spring and summer.

David Lepper, former Labour MP for Brighton Pavilion