Motorists travelling to nature reserves in Sussex look set to be hit by a wave of car parking charges.

The proposal to introduce parking fees or hike those currently in place has emerged in a detailed review of how East Sussex County Council should manage its 15 countryside sites.

The scrutiny investigation was commissioned last autumn to promote healthier living, especially among young people, older people and black and minority ethnic groups.

Environment bosses have welcomed the master plan and are now exploring 12 key recommendations which have been put forward.

Along with generating more income through shops, cafes and car parking, the report also suggests relying more heavily on volunteers, seeking Green Flag status and investigating whether the sites could be outsourced.

A publicity campaign will also be drawn up to target those with disabilities and disadvantaged groups.

Councillor Godfrey Daniel, chairman of the council's Transport and Environment Scrutiny Committee, has presented his findings to senior councillors.

Speaking at the meeting of the council's cabinet committee, Coun Daniel said: "Our recommendations give some clear directions of travel and we think that under the officer leadership we have got this could be a very positive area of the council."

Councillor Matthew Lock, lead cabinet member for transport and environment, said after the meeting: "I very much welcome this report.

"It recognises the hard work of our dedicated and professional staff at the same time as setting out the challenges ahead.

"With its country parks, nature reserves, heathlands and other countryside areas, East Sussex is a county of picture postcard beauty.

"By examining now how best to conserve and manage these sites, in line with this important review, we can make sure future generations have the same access as we have today."

David Rogers, Lib Dem leader on the county council, said allowing volunteers to run parks in Newhaven had proved successful.

But he warned that parking changes should be carefully monitored so as not to put people off using green spaces.

He said: "I am aware that parking charges have been introduced in Seven Sisters and it doesn't seem to have had an impact.

"So as long as the charges are not excessive it shouldn't put people off."

The 15 open spaces cover 1,200 hectares and include Weir Wood, West Park, Chailey Common, Hempstead Meadows, Forest Way, Ditchling Common, Camber and Park Wood.

The report will now go before a meeting of the full county council for debate.

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