Landscape architect and planner takes the helm in 10th year of the national park
A landscape architect with a long-standing passion for the natural environment has been elected as the new chairman of the South Downs National Park Authority.
Ian Phillips was elected at the annual meeting, succeeding Margaret Paren, who had been chairman since the authority’s inaugural meeting in 2010.
Ian paid tribute to the tireless work and dedication of Margaret, who was one of the early campaigners for the creation of the South Downs National Park and was awarded the OBE in 2012 for services to the environment.
Ian said: “Margaret’s commitment to the South Downs National Park has left a legacy that will endure and, on behalf of the authority, I thank her for the energy and enthusiasm that has helped to shape the evolution of England’s youngest protected landscape. It is a real honour to be elected as chair and a privilege to help shape the park’s progress as part of such a highly-motivated and enthusiastic organisation of staff and members. I look forward to working with the park’s many supporters and friends.”
Ian was a national appointment to the authority in 2013 and, after serving on the planning committee, was elected deputy chair last year. A chartered landscape architect and town planning consultant, he has decades of experience in the local government, environmental, not-for-profit and private sectors and also served as vice president of the Landscape Institute for four years.
Growing up in Brighton gave him opportunities to explore and enjoy the South Downs landscape and this experience became a major influence in his decision to pursue landscape architecture as a career. He is passionate about connecting people with the landscape and sees the vital role the National Park plays, sitting at the heart of the green infrastructure of the South East.
He now lives in Farnham with his wife and twin daughters and enjoys photography, interesting food and travelling.
Ian added: “I have felt a close affinity with the Downs ever since my early childhood visits on an opentop bus to the Devil’s Dyke. As chair I want to progress the vision of a ‘People’s Park’ by working with our existing communities and engaging with new audiences. The South Downs is a living, changing landscape and I see our role as helping to manage the inevitable changes that will affect this precious landscape, so the new is as highly valued as the traditional.”
Stepping down as chair as the park marks its 10th anniversary this year, Margaret said: “It has been a great privilege to have been involved with the South Downs National Park since its establishment in 2010. It was born in the midst of austerity and now, in its 10th year, faces the enormous challenges created by Covid-19 and its aftermath. I am confident the authority will continue its work of enhancing this wonderful landscape, while offering its full support to the communities of the National Park in this difficult time. I offer the South Downs my heartfelt good wishes for the future.”
Vanessa Rowlands, who lives in the Cuckmere Valley, was elected as deputy chair at the annual meeting.