Challenges for traffic and transport
Traffic levels and congestion
Many people living in the National Park believe that congestion is a problem. Although the available evidence does not support this view, it does show that traffic flows are very seasonal. In particular traffic on the A591 into Windermere can get very busy at times. As this is the main route into the Lake District from the south for most visitors it does give a bad impression when they first arrive.
Challenges for public transport into the National Park
- Long standing engineering works on the West Coast Rail Mainline leading to very poor perception of rail as a way of accessing the Lake District
- Rail timetable changes affecting ease of access for people from outside the Lake District
- Lack of Sunday rail services on coastal rail line
Challenges for public transport within the National Park
- Some services do not run where and when people want them
- Old and inappropriate vehicles
- High cost of fares
- Poor links between different services
- Lack of awareness of existing services among accommodation providers and attractions
- Poor marketing of services
Challenges for car parking
- Poor quality facilities such as toilets and information boards
- High prices and inconsistent pricing
- Lack of availability of spaces
- Current provision does not encourage long stay
- Congestion caused by people driving around looking for a space
- Lack of accessible information about car parks
- Poor signing
Challenges for cyclists
- Poor provision for cyclists in terms of cycle routes
- Poor provision for parking bicycles
- A lack of opportunities to integrate with other modes of transport