MOTORCYCLES and four-wheel-drive vehicles could face new access restrictions on historic green lanes in the Yorkshire Dales this summer.

The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority this week supported plans for experimental traffic regulation orders, which will limit vehicular access on four unsurfaced tracks used by walkers, cyclists and horse riders.

Green lanes existed long before the advent of vehicles, but widespread access is now a controversial issue because of motorcycles and off-road vehicles.

Some critics argue motorbikes and vehicles should be banned, while enthusiast clubs believe self regulation and responsible use can protect routes from severe erosion and limit noise pollution.

The national park authority can impose traffic orders to save or enhance the landscape, or to protect the public's enjoyment. Its experiment will cover four of the 80 green lanes in the Dales.

The action has come about after a number of meetings between the authority and North Yorkshire County Council.

Both bodies have been looking at ways to better manage these routes used for recreational motor vehicles.

Authority chairman Steve Macar said: "Walkers, cyclists and horse riders all come to the national park to appreciate its special qualities, natural beauty and peace.

"This is increasingly being compromised by recreational motor vehicles and this authority needs look at solutions to the problem."

National park recreation officer Sue Hilder added: "Vehicular use of green lanes is by far the most contentious recreational issue in the Dales. Twenty four parish councils have written to us, asking for better management and complaints to the police have increased.

"By running this trial, we will be able to assess whether this approach delivers the management we are after and better protects the Dales for its residents and many millions of visitors."

There will be an initial six-week consultation period on the overall proposals and further consultations on each proposed order. If successful, the orders could be extended to other green lanes.

l Dales' parishes meet: page 8