THE Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority (YDNPA) has assumed responsibility for an extra 300 miles of rights of way in Cumbria.
It follows a legal agreement signed with Cumbria County Council and will see a further 150 square miles of Cumbria, including Orton and the northern Howgills, became part of the National Park.
The agreement, which came into effect on April 4, means that National Park rangers are now formally the first port of call for any enquiries about rights of way in the extension area.
Cumbria County Council will make a one-off payment of £150,000 to the Authority, to help it carry out its new duties.
The YDNPA’s Chairman Carl Lis, said: “This has been a sensitive negotiation and it has been well handled.
“Cumbria County Council have been exceptionally good to work with, and I would like to thank them for their co-operation.
The YDNPA has opened an office in Orton to provide a base for a newly created Western Ranger team.
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