MOVES are being made to manage a contentious route over one of the Lake District's most popular passes.

Dual status Garburn Pass is recorded both as a bridleway and unclassified country road, linking Troutbeck and Kentmere valleys. Rising to a height of 1,500 feet, it is vulnerable to erosion by water and is one of the most regularly used by motorbikes and 4x4s in the national park.

Over the last five years, it has attracted more complaints than any other route used by motorcycles and 4x4s and today (Friday, May 21) the Lake District National Park Authority's implementation committee will be asked to approve a management plan for Garburn.

The authority's trails adviser Dave Robinson said after listening to interested parties through consultation last year, a scheme had been drawn up which would give Troutbeck and Kentmere greater protection, but still allow users holding permits to ride or drive over the pass.

"The proposals are not intended to prohibit all vehicles, they aim to manage them," said Mr Robinson. "This is just one part of a bigger management package.

"We want to carry out some essential repair work to drainage and the surface of the route for everyone's benefit.

"We also want to work with local police to encourage vehicle users to stick to legal routes in the area."

He suggested that monthly permits would be granted for 4x4s, motorbikes and horse riders, with holders given the number for combination locks on gates.

"Under the proposals, Garburn Pass would become one-way for 4x4 traffic from Troutbeck to Kentmere. Once users have applied for a permit, they will still have unlimited use of the route," explained Mr Robinson.

Plans being put to the implementation committee include: l Drainage and repair work on the top section of the Kentmere side.

l A six-month temporary Traffic Regulation Order to restrict traffic for public safety while work is undertaken and to allow the repaired surface to consolidate.

l A permit issued monthly for riders and drivers.

On behalf of vehicle users, Geoff Wilson, chairman of the Hierarchy of Trail Routes in the Lake District group, said: "Users support route specific management initiatives of this sort and work in partnership with the NPA to make them happen.

"In the main, the elements of this proposal are good, however, vehicle users have yet to be convinced that it is necessary to restrict 4x4s to one-way use.

"We believe that this should be a flexible option in the regulation order."

See Lakes Guide - Travel Watch for more information on travelling in the area.