Exactly which planet is Henry Smith living on (The Argus, April 14)? To say that conservation is not necessarily the number one priority in a national park is absolute nonsense.

National Park Authorities have two duties: to conserve and enhance the natural beauty and to promote the quiet enjoyment and understanding of an area's special qualities.

If there is ever an irreconcilable conflict between these two purposes, conservation has to come first. This is spelt out clearly in the law.

In contrast, county councils have a myriad of responsibilities and, as a result, conservation rarely gets a look in.

Mr Smith was correct in one sense - that a national park authority would not stop development. But it would have the power to ensure, as much as practical, that any development would be in sympathy with the surrounding landscape and in accordance with National Park purposes.

If he is genuinely concerned about increased visitor numbers hindering attempts to protect the Downs, what is he proposing to do about the projected increase in visitors which is going to occur whether there is a National Park Authority or not?

The only body peddling myths about the National Park is West Sussex County Council and its supporters. It is an authority which looks increasingly desperate as it realises that its case against the National Park is sinking fast.

Whether the politicians have the sense to abandon ship or are determined to go down with it, we shall have to wait and see.

-Chris Todd, campaign officer, South Downs Campaign