South Downs National Park Sees Rise In Anti-Social Behaviour And Illegal Camping
There’s been an increase in anti-social behaviour and illegal camping across the area, according to the South Downs National Park Authority.
Photos shared by the Authority show the remains of a bonfire, a number of discarded tents, camp chairs and litter left behind by visitors to the area.
It said: “Most people enjoying the South Downs are brilliant but we’ve seen an increase in anti-social behaviour.
“Spending a night outdoors is something lots of us enjoy. With campsites reopening we can help support small businesses by staying in these places, many of which permit outdoor fires and BBQs.”
In recent weeks, wild camping has caused damage to some sensitive sites, including scheduled ancient monuments such as 3,000-year-old
Bronze Age Barrows and Iron Age Hill Forts.
The National Park Authority says damaging scheduled ancient monuments is an arrestable offence.
And it says people should keep yourself and the wonderful heritage of the National Park safe by not wild camping.
It says:
You can camp in designated campsites. Please check and book with the campsite before you travel. You cannot wild camp in the South Downs National Park.
The National Park also encourages people to keep their dogs on a lead, not to picnic on private land or near livestock, not to park on verges and to stick to social distancing measures at all times.
If you see a fire, BBQ or anyone camping in places where they shouldn’t, report on 101 or call 999 if an emergency.4
Photos: SDNPA
Comments
It is very disappointing that you are not allowed to wild camp in England. How about make the wild camping legal, but the leaving or rubbish behind or damaging the are illegal.