Police and politicians have met to discuss problems caused by the number and behaviour of visitors to the Yorkshire Dales.
The meeting was called by Skipton and Ripon MP, Sir Julian Smith, amid growing concern over traffic congestion, dangerous parking and anti-social behaviour.
He was joined by Chief Inspector Simon Williamson, who leads the neighbourhood policing team in Craven, and Superintendent Teresa Lam, Craven District Commander, and North Yorkshire councillors.
Residents have spoken out about rising visitor numbers, gridlocked roads, obstructive parking and the impact on emergency service access during peak periods.
Councillors also raised concerns about anti-social behaviour directed at residents and countryside rangers, including reports of verbal abuse when visitors are challenged over parking or issues such as disposable barbecues.
A range of potential measures were discussed, including greater use of fixed penalty notices, improved signage, possible clearway restrictions and, in some cases, vehicle removal where obstruction occurs.
Sir Julian said he has already held discussions with North Yorkshire Council and the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, and was continuing to press for coordinated action.
He said the meeting had been partly prompted by the tragic death of 13-year-old Palwasha Akbar, who died last month after being rescued from the River Wharfe near Burnsall.
The MP said: “Residents across the Dales are deeply concerned about the scale of traffic, poor parking and anti-social behaviour we continue to see during busy periods.
“Following the recent tragic incident in Burnsall, it was important to bring together North Yorkshire Police and local councillors to discuss what further action can be taken.
“There was clear recognition that more needs to be done. Enforcement has a role to play, but this will require close working between North Yorkshire Police, North Yorkshire Council and the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority.
“This was a very productive meeting, and I am grateful to those who attended. I will continue pressing all relevant agencies to work together on practical solutions which protect both residents and visitors across the Dales.”
Last week, North Yorkshire Council’s Skipton and Ripon area committee heard calls from councillors for police to tow away visitors’ vehicles badly parked at Dales beauty spots.
Councillor David Staveley warned that the emergency services could be prevented from reaching serious incidents in time due to irresponsible parking.
Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Paul Crabtree said North Yorkshire Police recognised the “very real concerns” being raised by rural communities.
He added: “The large number of visitors to the south Dales puts a strain on the existing infrastructure, and this is having a direct impact on residents’ quality of life.
“There have been reports of inconsiderate and at times, dangerous parking, with vehicles blocking narrow roads, access points, and in some cases preventing emergency vehicles from getting through.
“Blocked roads are not simply an inconvenience; they pose a serious safety risk. Emergency access must be kept clear at all times, and enforcement action will be taken where necessary.”
Insp Crabtree said the force was asking visitors to play their part by parking responsibly and respecting the communities they are visiting.
