Car parks on Dartmoor have re-opened following the change in lockdown rules that allow people to drive to exercise.
From today, people will be allowed to take unlimited amounts of outdoor exercise, drive to other destinations – as long as existing rules on social distancing are followed.
Dartmoor National Park initially closed their car parks back in March following the initial lockdown announcement by Boris Johnson, but following the change in rules, car parks will reopen and they look forward to welcoming people back to the Moor.
A spokesman for the Park said: “We look forward to welcoming visitors back to Dartmoor. Our priority is to help people remain safe – those who come to exercise and the people who live and work in the National Park.
“We have re-opened our car parks at Haytor (top and middle), Princetown, Postbridge and Meldon. For now they will be free to use.”
But the spokesman confirmed that the toilets remain closed until they can be safely opened both for the public and our staff who clean them, while safely supporting social distancing and that the visitor centres will remain closed for the foreseeable future.
They added: “If you choose to come to Dartmoor to exercise things will be different – you can’t simply do what you did before.
“We kindly ask you to make a few changes to the way you visit to protect yourself and our communities, so we can all do our bit to control the spread of COVID-19. Every single action you take will make a difference.”
They are asking people to :
Stay alert
Stay at home as much as possible
Limit contact with other people – think about when you come and avoid busy sites and peak times of day
Follow social distancing rules. Keep away from other people (2 metres apart)
Wash your hands regularly – bring hand/sanitising gel with you (as there are limited facilities available to wash hands) and use it after touching shared surfaces e.g. gates and stiles when walking on paths
Keep your dog on a lead at all times
Look out for ticks and adders
Be considerate of farmers, local communities and the vulnerable. Avoid paths through farmyards and gardens – don’t linger if you use them
Be considerate of the wildlife, countryside and unique landscape – the lambing, foal and bird breeding season
When you park, please make sure you aren’t blocking gateways, narrow lanes or driveways
Be considerate to our rangers and staff – they are here to look after Dartmoor and those living, working and visiting
Be considerate to other visitors – share the space, limit your visits
Be patient with other people