In a move which may send shivers down those living in the Red Rose county, a section of Lancashire has been “rebranded” as the Yorkshire Dales.
It’s part of a Government move to promote tourism and market “two of our most iconic National Parks” – the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has extended the boundaries of both by a further 200 square miles. However, that’s meant a slight land grab, with part of Lancashire now falling into Yorkshire hands.
“The Dales and Lake District are part of our nation’s proud identity – immortalised by W. H. Auden and Wordsworth, they are home to some of our country’s most beautiful and rugged landscapes,” stated environment secretary, Andrea Leadsom.
“Today’s extension will virtually join up these precious natural assets, supporting the local economy, creating jobs and securing the area’s reputation as one of our country’s most attractive tourist destinations for generations to come.”
While the original press release didn’t tackle the thorny Roses issue, the BBC did pose the question about becoming part of the Yorkshire Dales to one contributor, who responded: “I think most will be happy to be part of this well-established brand.”
It’s worth noting that while areas such as Gragareth will become part of the Yorkshire Dales, they won’t be part of Yorkshire and they will be signposted accordingly.
According to STEAM 2015 (Scarborough Tourism Economic Activity Model), visitors spend over £1.8 billion in Lakes and Dales a year (the economic impact of visitors and tourism businesses was £1.2 billion in the Lake District National Park and £605 million in the Yorkshire Dales National Park wider area in 2015.)
