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Three new transport projects in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, developed through the Interreg IIIB Target 2 Project, have been praised in a recent UK Government guide to good practice. In an assessment of visitor travel and reducing the impacts of vehicular traffic on the environment, the most successful schemes have been showcased in this new guide called 'Making Campaigning for Smarter Choises Work'.
Case studies in the guide include The Dales Bus Discount Scheme which provides discounts at participating venues for people using public transport. This simple but effective scheme boosts both tourism and supports economic growth for local businesses in rural areas. The Dales Bus Discount Scheme was praised for its work in promoting sustainable travel and links with local business. A directory of participants and offers can be viewed through web site www.traveldales.org.uk
Secondly, preliminary work develped throughTarget 2 to encourage cycling as part of the sustainable tourism option in the Yorkshire Dales, led to the production of high quality walking and cycling maps created and published by Harvey Maps. The govenment guide praised the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority for its work involving a private sector partner's external funding.
A third inititive piloted through Target 2 funding, addressed socially excluded communities to visit and experience the National Park. Building on the success of this initiative, the Yorkshire Dales Park Authority were again praised for the continuing development of the newly called .... ''I'm a City Dweller, Get me out of here''.
Minister for Rural Affairs Jim Knight, said: 'With more and more people visiting National Parks, it is important to encourage transport and trafic management schemes that sucessfully balance sensitive environments whilst providing opportunities for recreaction'.