Northumberland National Park shuts down toilet blocks as it urges people not to travel unnecessarily after reports of high visitor numbers

It follows a weekend when large volumes of visitors descended on the countryside despite the coronavirus pandemic.

Rothbury councillor Steven Bridgett was among those to express his concerns when he appeared on ITV’s This Morning.

In a statement, Northumberland National Park said: “Now more than ever connecting with nature is important for our physical and mental well-being. Whilst the outdoors remain open, if you can get outside close to home while taking sensible precautions, then please do so.

“Following yesterday’s statement from the Prime Minister we ask that people support the NHS by adhering to government advice. Please do not travel unnecessarily and please follow the advice regarding social distancing. If you need to access open spaces you should do this close to home where possible.

“In Northumberland National Park our car parks and rights of way will remain open for now in keeping with Government advice, however, in the interest of wider public safety, we have closed all of our toilet facilities.

“This is in addition to the closure of our cafes and visitor centres, including The Sill at the end of last week.

“We are keen to continue to connect people with nature, landscape and heritage and the benefits they bring and will be looking at innovative ways to do this across our digital platforms over the coming weeks.

“This is a rapidly developing situation and this advice may change in the light of changing circumstances so please look out for updates.”