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Dartmoor in desperate need of repair following storm damage

The Beast from the East has left dozens of routes across Dartmoor in poor condition.

The heavy snowfall that hit the Moor earlier this year has significantly increased the cost of annual repairs that Dartmoor National Park has to make.

Chief Executive Kevin Bishop has met with Central Devon MP Mel Stride to ask for help in lobbying the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs for more funding to help cover the cost of repairs and said that Dartmoor needs greater support to ensure it remains accessible to visitors.

Mr Bishop said: “The heavy snow we experienced in March has significantly increased the cost of annual repairs leaving dozens of routes in poor condition. This is not a one off, we are seeing more sudden intense rainfall and this is leading to erosion of the access network. Climate change is having an impact: records show that average monthly rainfall has increased by 15 per cent in comparison to the 1960-1990 climatic baseline.

We need greater support if we are to ensure Dartmoor remains fully accessible for two million visitors to the national park each year who play a huge role in supporting the region’s economy.”

“We are also keen to work with the farming and landowning community to develop a new approach to farm support and rural development post Brexit. Farming Futures is an existing pilot in partnership with the Dartmoor Commoners, Duchy of Cornwall, Natural England, RSPB and South West Water with farmers designing the management to deliver a range of public benefits – improved biodiversity, protection of archaeology, public access etc."

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