People urged not to travel to Northumberland National Park despite easing of lockdown measures

A plea has been issued for people to stay away from Northumberland National Park despite the lifting of lockdown measures.
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From Wednesday, May 13 people will be allowed to take unlimited amounts of exercise outdoors and drive to other destinations, providing the existing rules on social distancing are followed.

“This is not the approach we have been advocating and we hoped the ‘stay local’ message would continue for a little longer to allow us time to better prepare and work with our communities and our partners to form a joined up approach,” said Northumberland National Park Authority in a statement.

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“Northumberland National Park Authority’s priority is the safety of our rural communities, our staff and our visitors. We are in the process of reviewing how we can re-open our facilities including car parks and toilets and we are working closely with our partners to align our thinking around this. Our car parks remain closed but we hope to be in a position to update you on this in the coming days.

Northumberland National Park, Ingram.Northumberland National Park, Ingram.
Northumberland National Park, Ingram.

“We know people are missing the unique special qualities and tranquil setting of Northumberland National Park and the health and wellbeing benefits it brings. We ask you to kindly be patient and to not travel to the National Park at this time. Until we are able to safely provide facilities to visitors it is not yet the best time to visit the Park.

“The countryside is a living, working place and the safety of rural and farming communities is important. Please consider our local communities and try not to visit towns, villages and hamlets if possible. If you’re walking on any of the public rights of way, we ask that you practice social distancing at all times, particularly around farm buildings and houses.

“In time, we believe there is an opportunity for nature and people to recover together and we ask for patience whilst our dedicated officers work tirelessly to ensure this is possible for everyone.”

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