Farron raises concern over impact of plans to redevelop the Glebe

South Lakes MP Tim Farron has today raised his concerns about the potential impact on tourism of plans to redevelop the Glebe at Bowness.

Groups including the Bowness Chamber of Commerce have raised objections to the plans due to the proposal to remove all on street free parking in favour of increasing the Braithwaite Fold car park - almost three quarters of a mile away. This would affect the accessibility of BownessBay, which is at the hub of the Lake District, as it would force older people and families with young children to park much further away from the Lake and attractions. This would make it less likely that tourists will stop at BownessBay at all.

Tim has written to South Lakeland District Council, Cumbria County Council and the Lake District National Park Authority to raise his concerns about the impact of the development on the area and has asked them to rethink their plans.

Commenting Tim said: "Bowness Bay is a fantastic attraction for people coming to visit the Lake District with stunning views, excellent cafes and restaurants, and Lake-based activities on Windermere itself.

"At such a precarious time for businesses in the Lakes, it would be a dangerous thing to get rid of parking on the Glebe, and I would want to urge an immediate rethink, and for the national park to consider carefully the impact on the local economy and amend its proposals."