Dartmoor National Park has spent more than £60,000, part of a three year funding programme from DEFRA, to make the park more accessible to visitors, with more improvements to come in the following years.
So far, the National Park has updated a number of routes by adding signage and resurfacing, including at several Miles Without Stiles routes, which allows people with limited mobility and other access needs to explore the park.
Speaking to reporters, Tim Russell, the Recreation and Access Projects officer at Dartmoor National Park, said: “The National Park’s upland moors, sheltered wooded valleys, varied flora and fauna, geology and archaeology, enclosed farmland and unrivalled opportunities for exploration are just a few reasons why people love Dartmoor.
“Working together with others, we’re doing brilliant work to help people from all backgrounds and abilities enjoy this wonderful landscape”
These improvements and the upcoming projects are all part of the Access for All programme, which was developed in response to the Landscape Review which called on the government to open national landscapes to a more diverse audience.
According to Mr Russell, the DEFRA funding will help Dartmoor become a more inclusive place.
The funding so far has provided the following improvements:
A new gateway, path surfacing and a ramp at The Island, in South Brent
The repair of a woodland nature trail at Burrator’s Arboretum in Yelverton to make it more accessible to those using mobility aids or pushchairs.
Resurfacing and drainage repairs at the Cantrell Moorgate parking area
A new gate for Ugborough Moor and the Dartmoor Way
A four way timber sign at Bellever Forest at the Miles Without Stiles route
Resurfacing at Nun’s Cross near Princetown and parking improvements at the Miles Without Stiles route
A gate and broadwalk to create a circular route around Widecombe
Resurfacing of paths through Yarner Wood