Park Authority pleas for acceptance of new limit (From The Westmorland Gazette)

Park Authority pleas for acceptance of new limit

8:56am Friday 10th December 2004 in Sport By Gazette News Desk

LAKE users on Windermere are being urged to accept the new speed limit and enjoy their activities next year within the new by-law regulations.

The Lake District National Park Authority has issued an invitation to help shape the way part of the lake's funding is structured after the introduction of the 10mph speed limit on March 29.

The annual Lake Windermere Newsletter is on its way to 6,000 boat owners with registered craft on England's longest lake. The publication contains a map clearly illustrating what lake users will be allowed to do when the limit comes in.

In his introduction to the newsletter, chairman of the authority Michael Bentley praised all those who had contributed to the new lake management strategy, which will be published at the beginning of next year.

"We consulted extensively with lake users, local businesses and residents about the future of the lake and I thank you if you made a contribution to this. I am confident that Windermere's future looks healthy and prosperous. I can't believe that such a beautiful and dynamic place could ever fail to thrive," he said.

Mr Bentley also hits out at personal attacks made against him this year, and demonstrations on Coniston Water, which led to court action.

"We will continue to take a tough line with those who break the law," he said. "The decision for a 10mph speed limit on Windermere will not be overturned," he said.

If you would like a copy of the Lake Windermere Newsletter, contact the Lake District National Park Authority on 01539 724 555.