With new Covid-19 restrictions in place today, Dartmoor National Park is urging people to make sure they know the new rules and follow them in ways that continue to be careful, considerate and compassionate.

Following parliamentary approval yesterday, the new measures apply to England and have been published on the Government’s website in full www.gov.uk

Chief Executive Dr Kevin Bishop said: “We’re well prepared to deal with this second lockdown and have worked quickly to respond to the changing situation.

“We know how important connecting with the outdoors is for our physical and mental health and wellbeing. Our priority is to help people remain safe; whether that’s people who live and work in the National Park or those that come here to enjoy what’s special about it.

“Every single one of us still has a part to play in moving safely through this new set of restrictions. We ask that people make a few simple changes to the way they visit to protect themselves, each other and Dartmoor communities. If we continue to follow the rules, and be compassionate and kind, we can do our bit to manage the spread of Covid-19.”

While some facilities on Dartmoor are open, it is still far from business as usual. Local people using Dartmoor for exercise and much needed fresh air should follow all rules to ensure they protect themselves, others and keep the National Park special for everyone.

The National Park’s head office at Parke remains closed. Visitor Centres at Haytor, Postbridge and Princetown are also closed until 2 December at the earliest.

Car parks are open and toilets are open at:

• Haytor

• Dartmeet

• Postbridge

• Meldon Reservoir

• Shipley Bridge.

If car parks are full, people must not park on verges, double yellow lines, in front of gates and entrances, narrow lanes or anywhere on the road where access will be blocked.

These areas must be kept clear for emergency services, farmers and residents as well as ensuring food and vital supplies can be delivered safely to the vulnerable and those living in more remote areas.

Dartmoor National Park asks people to follow three simple principles:

Be careful

• Consider when you visit Dartmoor and avoid busy sites and peak times of day.

• Follow social distancing rules.

• Wear a mask or face covering in shops that remain open.

• Clean hands regularly with regular washing or using hand sanitising gel after touching shared surfaces.

• Always keep dogs on leads.

Be compassionate

• Of farmers, local communities and the vulnerable. Avoid paths through farmyards and gardens – don’t linger longer than necessary.

• Of the wildlife, countryside and unique landscape.

• Towards National Park staff who are still working on the moor to keep people safe.

• To others by sharing the space and thinking carefully about what time you visit.

Be considerate

• Follow the Countryside Code.

• No overnight stays. This includes not staying overnight in motorhomes in car parks or laybys – which is against byelaws – and not backpack camping.

• No barbecues or fires.

• Take litter home and leave no trace.

• Park in designated areas only.

• Stick to cycling on permitted routes.

The National Park’s headquarters at Parke remain closed to the public. People can still contact the Authority by phone or email in the usual way.

Formal Authority meetings continue to take place virtually. You can see upcoming meetings at the online calendar.

For the most up to date information follow Dartmoor National Park on social media or visit the website www.dartmoor.gov.uk