Julian Smith MP has met with senior officers from North Yorkshire Police
He also met local councillors to discuss growing concerns surrounding traffic congestion, dangerous parking and anti-social behaviour in parts of the Yorkshire Dales.
The meeting was attended by Cllr David Staveley, Cllr Simon Myers, Cllr Richard Foster, Chief Inspector Simon Williamson, who is responsible for the Neighbourhood Policing Team, and Superintendent Teresa Lam, Craven District Commander, from North Yorkshire Police.
During the meeting, Julian raised concerns following the recent tragic death in Burnsall and highlighted increasing worries from residents about overcrowding, traffic volumes, obstructive parking and emergency service access during busy periods.
North Yorkshire Police outlined ongoing work on neighbourhood policing, increased resources for Craven and explained that demand analysis had been undertaken to determine how resources should be deployed across the county.
The meeting also explored what more could be done on parking enforcement and traffic management.
North Yorkshire Police explained that while local authorities hold primary responsibility for directing traffic and certain parking enforcement powers, officers will intervene where vehicles create unnecessary danger or obstruct emergency access.
A range of options were discussed, including the use of Fixed Penalty Notices, clearer signage, possible clearway restrictions and vehicle towing in areas where access is obstructed.
Councillors also raised concerns about anti-social behaviour directed towards local residents and rangers, including incidents of abuse when visitors are challenged over parking or use of disposable barbecues, among other issues.
Commenting, Julian said,
“Residents across the Dales are deeply concerned about the scale of traffic, poor parking and anti-social behaviour we continue to see during busy periods.
"Following the recent tragic incident in Burnsall, it was important to bring together North Yorkshire Police and local councillors to discuss what further action can be taken.
“There was clear recognition that more needs to be done.
"Enforcement has a role to play, but this will require close working between North Yorkshire Police, North Yorkshire Council and the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority.
"I will continue pressing all relevant agencies to work together on practical solutions which protect residents and visitors and across the Dales.”
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