Cycle with Moor care in National Park

Dartmoor National Park Authority is asking for views on a new code of conduct for cycling within the National Park. 

The new code provides a simple set of guidelines aimed to encourage responsible cycling within the National Park for both on and off road cyclists. The National Park produces a series of codes for all the most popular activities enjoyed on Dartmoor and with a huge increase in the use of the moor and its road network for cycling there is a need to provide information to help with awareness.

Andrew Watson, Head of Recreation, Access & Estates said: "We have seen a dramatic increase in the popularity and participation in cycling on Dartmoor in recent times and we are asking people for their views on this guidance which promotes responsible cycling.

"Whilst cycling can benefit tourism and the rural economy, the National Park remains a living and working landscape. 

"We want people to ride responsibly on Dartmoor's narrow roads and adhere to the Highway Code and when riding off road, only to use legally designated routes for cycling and not to ride on open moorland unless following a bridleway or other designated route.

"Riding and braking heavily on wet ground for example, can lead to increased erosion on sensitive routes."

The full guidance is available to view at National Park Visitor Centres or at www.dartmoor.gov.uk/cycling

The consultation runs until the end of October and responses can be sent to recreation@dartmoor.gov.uk