THE Yorkshire Dales National Park says while it currently has no plans to close public rights of way, it is reviewing the situation on a daily basis.

But, it is stressing that people should not drive to the park to access the rights of way.

The park, which last week saw huge numbers of people flocking to popular areas, such as Malham, says it has received concerns from some members of the public about rights of way remaining open during the coronavirus crisis.

A statement on the authority's website reads: "At present we believe public rights of way in the Yorkshire Dales National Park provide an opportunity for local people to take exercise, physical and spiritual, and get some fresh air in these difficult times. These paths should not be blocked or obstructed.

"It is also important to stress that people should not be making special journeys to access them. Travel to exercise is not essential travel and people should not be travelling to do their daily exercise.

"Local communities throughout the park rely on these rights of way, and their safety should not be compromised by unnecessary travel into and around the park – such as we saw last weekend – so if there is a particular problem with people gathering on rights of way, then the police should be informed. They have the power to disperse any groups behaving in such a way.

"Where rights of way pass close to, or through residential and agricultural properties, it is important that the existing Government advice regarding social distancing and hand washing is adhered to.

The National Park Authority will work with the highways authorities in Cumbria, Lancashire and North Yorkshire to take any further actions necessary in the event of any changes to legislation or Government guidance, however, at this time there are no plans to close public rights of way."

Nick Cotton, member champion for recreation management said: “Walking or cycling in the Yorkshire Dales, carried out responsibly, with social distancing from other people, is an excellent way to maintain our physical and mental health. These are both vital components in keeping our strength and maintaining our spirits through the Covid-19 crisis. "The days are getting longer and we should channel the energy of springtime to help us face the future with positive feelings of rebirth and renewal."