Last opportunity to share views on litter and fly-camping in the Lake District
Survey closure to push for visitor behaviour improvements
As incidents of illegal fly-camping, litter, and wildfires continue to surface across the Lake District, Friends of the Lake District reminds residents and visitors that their annual survey on these issues will close at the end of August.
The landscape charity collected 785 responses last year, highlighting widespread issues in the National Park, and this year’s survey has seen over 720 responses so far.
More responses are encouraged before the summer holidays end to enhance understanding and influence policy changes.
Impact on Policy and Practice
The survey is open to both locals and visitors, with results intended to advocate for better management of visitor behaviour.
Suggestions include increased monitoring of fly-camping hotspots, stricter measures against offenders, and preventive strategies.
Last year's survey showed 46% felt conditions had “significantly worsened,” while 34% felt they were somewhat worse, and 17% noted no change.
In response, tougher enforcement measures, such as new Public Space Protection Orders, have been introduced, leading to local media coverage.
Sustained Efforts Needed
Jeremy Smith, Head of Campaigns and Engagement for Friends of the Lake District, said, “The indication from the survey results we’ve received so far this year are that, while things may not have got significantly better, the tougher enforcement measures are having some impact. A minority of people come to the Lake District not to enjoy the tranquillity and beauty of the landscape, but to cut down trees, start dangerous fires, set up illegal campsites and leave litter behind. It’s important that efforts to tackle this behaviour are sustained throughout the rest of the summer and beyond.”
The consequences of illegal camping and littering extend beyond visual impact.
Barbecues and discarded rubbish pose hazards to wildlife and livestock, can degrade soil quality, contaminate water systems, spark wildfires, and create health risks for people.
Friends of the Lake District urges those who have not yet participated in the survey to do so, contributing valuable insights that could shape future preservation efforts.