The Green Lanes Environmental Action Movement is taking legal action (Judicial Review) against the Lake District National Park Authority (LDNPA). We are challenging its refusal to stop 4x4s and motorbikes ruining one of the most beautiful places in England. As UNESCO has said, the LDNPA should use Traffic Regulation Orders to protect this unique landscape.

Our case is vital if you care about the beauty and tranquillity of the Lake District, a National Park and World Heritage Site.

We have started judicial review proceedings but we need help with our costs.

Background

Over the last 20 years there has been a massive increase in the number of recreational motor vehicles on two fell tracks near Little Langdale. They are degrading the spectacular beauty and tranquillity of the landscape with their intrusive presence, noise and exhaust fumes and by eroding the track surface. Quiet enjoyment of both tracks is being spoiled for non-motorised users, and for the two sheep farms on the tracks these vehicles are a persistent nuisance.

All the National Parks have the legal power to control motor vehicle use of unsealed tracks by imposing Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs). Unlike other National Parks, the LDNPA is refusing to use TROs.

This is despite the wishes of the local community, despite clear evidence that TROs are needed to protect the natural beauty of the Little Langdale area, and despite a petition signed by over 350,000 people.

We believe that if we can defeat the LDNPA over these two tracks it will set a precedent for the protection of other green lanes in the National Park which are being damaged by 4x4s and motor bikes.

You can find out more by visiting Save The Lake District at https://www.savethelakedistrict.com/

You can read a recent Guardian article about the two tracks here: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2019/nov/19/lake-district-under-pressure-to-ban-4x4s-from-farm-tracks.

Thank you for your help.