New powers for National Park Authorities to protect green lanes

1 October 2007

The Council for National Parks (1) (CNP) has welcomed new powers (2) for National Park Authorities (NPAs) in England to make Traffic Regulation Orders (3) to control the use of motor vehicles on rights of way.

The new powers have been introduced in response to concerns about the impact that recreational motor vehicles such as four wheel drives and trail bikes can have on the conservation and enjoyment of some of the National Parks.  In 2005, CNP surveyed all the National Park Authorities in England and Wales (4) and found that off-road vehicle use was having a significant impact on several of the National Parks, including the North York Moors, Yorkshire Dales and Lake District.  The impacts from off-road vehicle use include physical damage to rights of way, conflict with non-motorised users and land managers, and disturbance to tranquillity.

CNP’s research highlighted the need for Park Authorities to be given direct powers to make Traffic Regulation Orders as previously such orders could only be made by local highway authorities.  This meant that there could be a delay in making orders, during which time further damage often occurred.

In welcoming the new powers, David Murray, Transport Campaigner at CNP, says, “These new powers will enable National Park Authorities to address concerns about damage caused by inappropriate off-road vehicular use.  This will help ensure that the public can continue to enjoy the tranquillity and peace and quiet found in the National Parks”.

Notes to editors
1.         The Council for National Parks (CNP) is the national charity that works to protect and enhance the National Parks of England and Wales, and those areas that merit National Park status, and to promote understanding and quiet enjoyment of them for the benefit of all.
2.         The new powers are set out in Section 72 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006.  From today (1 October), National Park Authorities can make traffic regulation orders within their boundaries on rights of way and unsurfaced roads.
3.         Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) are legal orders, made under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, excluding all mechanically-propelled motor vehicles from these sections, except for private access.
4.         http://www.cnp.org.uk/docs/Off_road_or_off_limits.pdf

Contact: David Murray, Policy Officer, 020 7924 4077 ext. 232