Police are reminding all visitors to the national parks in Cumbria to respect the local communities and the environment.
The dumping of disposable barbecues, bottles, toilet waste and other litter has caused concern among communities over the weekend.
Camping has also been raised as a problem across the county with tents, campervans and motorhomes parked up in rural locations.
Working closely with Cumbria Constabulary, Copeland MP, Trudy Harrison has contacted town and parish councils in order to work collaboratively to improve the situation.
Mrs Harrison, said: “I am in the process of speaking with the local authorities, Police and LDNP to establish the locations for this unacceptable behaviour and the steps we can take to prepare and prevent a repeat of this over coming weeks.
“The good weather has brought an influx of people visiting beauty spots in Copeland and unfortunately some people have been leaving a significant amount of rubbish behind as well as causing problems parking in narrow lanes.
“I have today returned to Westminster and will be feeding back all concerns to the Tourism Minister as we begin to take steps to ease lockdown restrictions.”
The Government has since released updated lockdown guidance on gatherings, public spaces and outdoor activities, making clear that all overnight stays away from home are prohibited.
Assistant Chief Constable, Andrew Slattery appealed to visitors to behave responsibly and respect the local environment and its inhabitants.
He said: “As the lockdown measures are eased across the country and foreign holidays are not available, many people are choosing to visit the Lakes and Dales but we appeal to all visitors to respect the environment and the local communities.
“We all hope that the tourist economy can start to open up soon and cater for all who want to visit our fantastic national parks, but potential visitors need to understand how facilities are still limited. Until camp sites and holiday accommodation are allowed to open, people should not plan to stay overnight in contravention of the Coronavirus Regulations.
“Social distancing must be observed at all times, vehicles must be parked legally and considerately, and visitors must take their rubbish away to be disposed of safely and responsibly. Roads blocked by parked cars and piles of discarded bottles and barbecues on the lakeshores are not acceptable. Now, more than ever, it is vital that visitors care for the area and leave nothing but footprints.”
