Have your say on annual parking pass proposals

Dartmoor National Park is asking regular visitors for views on introducing an annual parking pass.    The Authority wants to hear from people who regularly visit and get the most out of Dartmoor about whether they would support any introduction of an annual pass.  

The pass would support Dartmoor National Park’s important conservation work, helping to keep Dartmoor special now and for future generations.  

The survey asks people whether they would be willing to buy a £35 annual pass which could be used all year round for Dartmoor National Park-owned car parks at Haytor, Postbridge and Meldon Reservoir.  Andrew Watson, Head of Recreation, Access and Estates for Dartmoor National Park Authority, said: “UK national parks are free for everyone to enjoy. Here on Dartmoor, people can explore 450 miles of trails, 160 tors and see history through the ages dating right back to the Bronze Age.  

“When we consulted with communities on the plans to introduce fees at our car parks at Haytor, Postbridge and Meldon Reservoir we had useful feedback about an annual parking pass.  

“We now want a more detailed understanding and evidence about the level of interest. You can get involved by completing a short questionnaire. It will only take a couple minutes to fill in so please get involved. Your feedback will help us gather evidence and shape our approach in the future.”  

Get involved   Take part by visiting Dartmoor's website. The survey will run until October 25. After that, data will be analysed and results reported to Dartmoor National Park Authority members for further consideration at a later date.  

Dartmoor National Park owns and manages several pay and display car parks in the National Park. They are: Haytor (top and bottom car parks), Postbridge, Princetown (on behalf of West Devon District Council) and Meldon Reservoir.  

If you pay to park while visiting Dartmoor, you are directly involved in keeping it a special place now and in the future. Funds are re-invested into the care and protection of the moor’s landscapes. This includes supporting the work of the ‘Second Sunday’ voluntary conservation group which has worked hard to restore the granite tramway at Haytor and provide better access to the quarry too.  

Funds have also helped with path erosion repairs, maintaining trails and the upkeep of car parks and public toilets. The car parks are provided so people can park safely, reduce congestion and reduce parking in undesignated areas which can cause obstructions for farm vehicles, the emergency services and damage protected habitats.  Other car parks are owned by district councils and organisations including the National Trust, Forestry Commission and South West Water.  

Donate for Dartmoor supports a variety of projects across Dartmoor. Donations of time and money are essential for us to be able to look after the heritage and wildlife of Dartmoor and to make it a place for everyone to enjoy today, tomorrow and for the future. More information.