Calls to tackle Dales 'anti-social behaviour'

Yorkshire Dales residents are "deeply concerned about the scale of traffic, poor parking and anti-social behaviour", an MP has told a meeting.

North Yorkshire Council representatives discussed plans to better deal with the influx of seasonal visitors to beauty spots, amid further reports of traffic congestion and obstructive vehicles.

Councillors suggested using more fixed penalty notices, improving signage and removing vehicles deemed to be obstructing pedestrians or the flow of traffic in some cases.

"I will continue pressing all relevant agencies to work together on practical solutions which protect both residents and visitors across the Dales," said Skipton and Ripon MP Sir Julian Smith.

The meeting, also attended by North Yorkshire Police staff, was partly prompted by the death of Palwasha Akbar, 13, who drowned in the River Wharfe in Burnsall in late May.

The Conservative 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."

Councillors said they had heard reports of verbal abuse directed at residents and park rangers from visitors when challenged over parking or issues around the use of disposable barbecues.

"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," the MP added.

Last week, North Yorkshire Council's Skipton and Ripon area committee heard calls from councillors for police to tow away badly parked vehicles.

Councillor David Staveley, who represents Settle and Pen-y-ghent, warned poor parking could block emergency services from reaching serious incidents.

Neighbourhood policing inspector Paul Crabtree said North Yorkshire Police recognised the "very real concerns" being raised by rural communities, adding the influx of visitors had a "direct impact" on their quality of life.

"Blocked roads are not simply an inconvenience; they pose a serious safety risk," he said.

"Emergency access must be kept clear at all times and enforcement action will be taken where necessary."

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