WORTHING Council is selling off 57 acres of downland at Cissbury Ring – a decision which has sparked fears of future development on the south-east and south-west flanks of the ancient hill fort.
But council leader Paul Yallop this week said there would be no change in the present agricultural use of the land, which will become part of the new South Downs National Park.
Mr Yallop said the grazing land had been leased to a farmer, who died in 2006.
The council had decided not to re-lease the land, but instead to sell the freehold through an agricultural agent.
"We are hoping to realise about £200,000 from the sale," he added.
"But we are not selling it just to get the money. We haven't anyone expert at managing agricultural land, and a farmer would best manage the land."
Mr Yallop said the land would be sold with conditions to maintain its agricultural status.
Proceeds from the sale would be valuable in boosting front-line services to Worthing residents.
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