U-turn likely over Lakes parking

Some controversial increases in car park charges for Lake District visitors could be dropped after protests.

The Lake District National Park Authority imposed higher parking charges in 2002.

But businesses in the Hawkshead and Glenridding areas claim they are turning tourists away.

It is now expected that the authority will review some charges and introduce a system of concessions.

Workers who have to park in the area are also likely to receive discounts.

Until last year, the authority had tried to use parking charges to encourage visitors to park rather than use cars to tour the national park.

But opponents claim the move has failed and is prompting tourists to stay for shorter periods and as a result spend less money with local businesses.