Dartmoor National Park asks public to consider local residents and businesses before visiting during coronavirus crisis

Dartmoor National Park has written an open letter to the public asking them to consider the safety of locals before making the journey to Devon.

The car parks are now open, but toilets and visitor centres remain closed.

The letter, written by Park Authority Chief Executive Dr Kevin Bishop, reminds the public that they can get their 'Dartmoor fix' from home, using their website and their social media.

Animals have been adapting to life without the presence of humans. Credit: PA
Public toilets and visitor centres will only open when it’s safe to do so and social distancing can be maintained Credit: PA

The letter says, that if you do plan to visit Dartmoor, you should:

  • Keep your distance from other people in line with social distancing guidelines at all times.

  • Clean your hands regularly. Bring hand gel for use after touching shared surfaces (gates, stiles etc).

  • Keep your dog on a lead at all times.

  • Avoid paths through farmyards or gardens and not lingering longer than necessary.

It goes on to explain how wildlife is adapting to the absence of humans.

The public are asked to keep a lookout for birds nesting in new areas by treading lightly and listening carefully and owners are asked to keep dogs on leads at all times.