Protection orders to tackle illegal camping
Friends of the Lake DistrictSites in and around a national park will be given greater protection against anti-social behaviour, it has been announced.
Westmorland and Furness Council announced the implementation of public space protection orders (PSPOs) at Askam, Dalton and the Lake District's Blea Tarn, Coniston East Shore and Windermere West Shore, giving the authority the power to fine people causing environmental damage.
The council and Cumbria Police will be able to issue fixed penalty notices of up to £100 for behaviours such as fly-camping, irresponsible alcohol use, unsafe fires or barbecues and dog fouling in those areas.
The PSPOs will be introduced in early 2026, the local authority said.
A consultation was launched in September and the council reported 90% of respondents being in support of the orders.
In September, the Cumbria Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner David Allen and Chief Constable David Martland signed a joint letter to the council asking for an authority-wide ban on illegal camping, claiming the current PSPOs "shift the problem elsewhere".
Councillor Judith Derbyshire, cabinet member for housing and community safety, said the council's goal is for people "to leave no trace, rather than issuing fines".
"These orders are used to safeguard the places that matter to us all, ensuring our communities and treasured landscapes remain safe, welcoming, and enjoyable for everyone."
A consultation has also been launched on introducing the same measures in areas of Ambleside, Hartsop, Coniston, Haweswater Reservoir, Ullswater and Windermere
