Forestry England has explained its introduction of parking charges at an Ennerdale car park.
The organisation has installed a new pay and display ticket machine at Bowness Knott – an area where parking has been free.
The change has upset local people who frequent the area which has led to debate on social media, with one person calling it ‘the creeping death of tourism’.
A spokesman for Forestry England said: “The Ennerdale Valley is a truly special place, one which as land managers Forestry England take great care to look after.
“We have not charged for parking at Bowness Knott previously but need to implement charges now to help us continue important work such as maintaining trails, planting native trees, replacing fences, restoring nature and funding rangers to deal with litter, fly camping and other anti-social activities.
“An annual membership is now available which, as well as supporting the work of Forestry England, provides free parking at Bowness Knott. This membership costs £25 per household per year.
“We rely on the support of our visitors to help us invest in the forests for the future and we’re keen to thank them all.”
The new ticket machine is card payment only and an all-day ticket costs £8. Charges also apply to blue badge holders.
