Sam Elliott-Gibbs

Campaigners and local residents say rising visitor numbers in the Lake District are contributing to illegal wild camping, littering, human waste, blocked paths, reckless parking, wildfires and other anti-social behaviour. Judith Derbyshire of Westmorland and Furness Council says enforcement resources have been reduced, while fines of up to £100 for environmental damage are frequently ignored. Local surveys report growing concern that tourism has exceeded the area’s capacity and is harming the environment, residents’ quality of life and wildlife, although officials stress that visitors remain welcome if they follow the Countryside Code.