THE granting of World Heritage Status for the Lake District National Park will no doubt bring with it many benefits, with added tourist numbers and increased revenue and jobs.

The downside could well be further restrictions on planning applications, which could affect the farming sector.

Added to this will be an increased traffic volume, particularly on the main north/south arterial route though Windermere, Ambleside Grasmere, and Keswick.

More efforts will be needed by tourist organisations to encourage the tourist to venture further afield as these three tourist areas are becoming saturated with visitor,s many who are not aware of other areas of the National Park that can offer as good, if not better, visitor experience.

The granting of World Heritage Status is a privilege and should not be used to increase prices of tourist attractions, accommodation and car park charges.

Peter Gaukroger

Kendal