Geography - Tourism - UK Tourism - National Park - Lake District CASE STUDY

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The Lake District National Park CASE STUDY

Background

The Lake District is in the North West of England.

It became a National Park in 1951, along with the Peak District - these were the first 2 National Parks in England.

The Lake Districts gets around 15 million visitors each year - both domestic and international tourists.

Most people arrive by car (89%) but some also arrive by bus or train.

Attractions: why do people visit?

Many tourists come to see the amazing natural landscape and scenery such as large lakes, like the Windermere, and mountains, such as Scafell Pike.

There are many activities available, eg bird watching, walking, rock climbing, pony trekking, hiking, water sports, fishing, cycling etc.

There are also cultural/historical attractions eg. the Beatrix Potter and Wordsworth Museums.

Problems and Solutions

EnvironmentalFootpath erosion: Signs to show different paths

Shore Erosion: Only certain lakes allow water-sports to minimise lakes affected

Wildlife Disturbances: Some areas don't allow dogs

Tourists can trample farmers crops and disturb livestock as well as spread diseases to farmers crops/livestock by passing from one place to another: Farmers can fence off their land or not put footpaths through their fields.

Social

Honeypot Sites cause problems such as:Litter: Bins were removed to encourage visitors to take their rubbish home with them.

Lack of parking : Large "Pay to Park" car parks were built.

Traffic congestion: Heavy traffic (eg large coaches) were banned

Traffic issues such as busy roads causing erosion and speeding : Planned times and routes for public transport were made and people are encouraged to use them, also traffic calming measures such as speed ramps installed.

Economic

Tourists buying second homes in these areas can cause issues such as:

House prises can be raised for local residents: Property developers encouraged to build more low cost homes for local residents.

Population can very low in low tourist seasons meaning that the economy can become very poor as there is little income: Holidaymakers are either encouraged to rent or if they do own a home then to rent it out to other holiday makers when they are not using it.