Cumberland Council has closed a case involving an environmental offence after a group of individuals were identified for wild camping and causing significant damage in the Thirlmere area.
The group felled trees and lit a large fire, breaching a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) and causing unnecessary harm to the local landscape.
Thanks to joint efforts between the landowner, United Utilities, and Cumberland Council, the individuals involved were issued fines for the breach and made a voluntary donation to the John Muir Trust to support tree replanting and restoration in the affected area.
Cumberland Councillor Denise Rollo, Executive Member for Sustainable, Resilient and Connected Places, said:
“Although wild camping itself isn’t an offence, damaging the environment is. Cumberland Council has zero tolerance for environmental harm, and anyone breaching the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) risks a fine or prosecution.
“When wild camping leads to litter, fire damage or abandoned gear, it will not be tolerated.
“I urge everyone to camp responsibly, please follow Leave No Trace principles, and use designated sites to help protect our landscapes for everyone to enjoy.”
Andrew Wright, United Utilities Woodland Officer, said:
“Unfortunately, we regularly find trees that have been hacked down by wild campers. As well as destroying habitats, they are also creating a fire risk which is extremely dangerous.
“We work together with the council, National Park and other partners to engage with visitors and remind them that camping is only allowed in designated areas and urge them to leave only footprints.”
