New fining powers introduced ahead of Easter break

New powers to fine people involved in anti-social behaviour at beauty spots have been introduced in time for the Easter break.

Westmorland and Furness Council has brought in public space protection orders (PSPOs) at a further 12 sites in the Lake District including Ambleside, Ullswater, Haweswater Reservoir and Windermere.

Those causing environmental damage by littering, starting fires, or committing anti-social behaviour linked to camping or the "inappropriate use" of motorhomes could be fined up to £100, which could increase if not paid on time.

The Liberal Democrat-led council said its officers would patrol the areas with Cumbria Police over the two-week period.

The move follows a public consultation, in response to concerns raised by landowners and residents.

The council said those enjoying the areas responsibly would not be affected.

The orders cover National Trust-owned sites:

• Galava Roman Fort, Ambleside
• Holme Crag, Ambleside
• Blea Tarn
• Coniston East Shore
• Brothers Water, Hartsop
• South Ullswater, including Glencoyne and Aira Force
• Bowness and Millerground, including Cockshot Point, Windermere
• Windermere West Shore

As well as:

• South Ullswater including Ullswater Steamers land - owned by Lake District Estates and National Trust and Jenkin Field, Glenridding - owned by Patterdale Parish Council
• Ullswater, laybys and land adjacent to the lake - owned by Gowbarrow Hall
• Brown Howe, Coniston - owned by the Lake District National Park
• Haweswater Reservoir - owned by United Utilities

If a fine is not paid on time, or the incident is serious, culprits could be fined up to £1,000, the local authority said.

It also encouraged people to help report issues as it was "unable to be everywhere at once".

Follow BBC Cumbria on X, Facebook, Nextdoor and Instagram.