THE traffic problems of the Lake District National Park at busy times are well known (Gazette, September 19, 'Coach chaos in honeypots').

Few suggestions and solutions have been aired because of their possible effects on tourism. May I suggest two principles that would contribute towards a solution. Firstly, information; and secondly, subtle persuasion. The suggestions engender some form of restriction and self-regulation for all visitors and residents.

To put flesh on the bones, electronic signs would inform users of congestion/accidents ahead, as on a motorway. They would be placed strategically, for example, on the road from Windermere to Bowness advising "car/coach park full"; at the entrances to Ambleside (same wording) and at Skelwith Bridge for Langdale.

All events would have to providing parking and toilets and possibly restrict numbers participating.

I have given examples for the central Lakes but the same would apply to the whole national park.

I would see complete movement of traffic visiting hotels, B&Bs, camp and caravan sites and tourist attractions to maintain their viability.

The suggestion would necessitate coach companies to plan ahead and visitors to be flexible in their destinations.

Parking on commons such as Elterwater would be physically stopped and the use of additional fields for parking would be discouraged.

Central to these suggestions is an efficient public transport system giving inexpensive and regular travel; this could be tied up with a park and ride provision where suitable.

What are the benefits of such schemes? Most importantly the protection of the landscape. It would take pressures off the infrastructure and reduce need for further car/coach park facilities.

I return to my original theme: we must protect and enhance this unique landscape for future generations. I see this model used in all areas of natural beauty, national parks, AONBs and tourist "honeypots".

David Birkett

Kendal