A conservation group has accused councils opposed to a South Downs national park of wasting public money and causing an unacceptable delay.

The Brighton-based Friends of Sheepcote Valley said the Downs needed better protection and councils were only objecting to stop some powers being transferred to a ruling national park authority.

Secretary Bernard Evans said the group was dismayed the councils had forced a public inquiry into the proposal and their actions did not reflect public opinion.

He said: "With all the pressure from development in the South East, there is a great need for protection of the Downs.

"These same councils may find later that national park status becomes more help than a hindrance.

"We remain in support of the national park and will strive to get Sheepcote valley included within the boundary."

East and West Sussex county councils have earmarked £250,000 to fighting the park proposals at the inquiry, due to start in November.

Other councils which have objected to the park in principle include Chichester, Mid Sussex and Wealden.

Mr Evans praised local authorities, such as Brighton and Hove City Council, which support the proposed new park.

The Government's chief wildlife watchdog said 72 per cent of representation supported creating a park in the Downs during the most recent consultation.