The Council for National Parks (CNP) has called on the government to lend its support for a number of pioneering solutions to transport issues in National Parks.

The schemes, often directly funded by the Park Authorities and working with local bus operators, local businesses and sustainable tourism organisations, aim to encourage people to find alternative ways of getting to and around the Parks while leaving the car at home.

According to the CNP, government support is vital if green access to the Parks is to be improved.

David Murray, a spokesperson for CNP, said: “Most people travel to, and around, the national parks by private car which causes traffic congestion and air pollution and can mar the experience of peace and quiet and ‘getting away from it all’.

“We are urging the government to invest in green transport schemes for national parks so that more people can get there without driving, which gives local communities the same travel benefits as the millions of visitors to the Parks.”

Research published by CNP recommended that the government should introduce funding for green transport schemes in national parks.

The research warned that without proper investment, schemes such as the Moorsbus Network in the North York Moors could start to diminish as quickly as they appeared.

Paul Hamblin, director of the English National Park Authorities Association, said, “It takes sustained time and effort to establish high quality networks for walking, cycling and public transport.

“Secure funding is critical to turning such aspirations into real schemes helping people on the ground.”