Residents of the Lake District have been left fearing an influx of visitors after Boris Johnson gave Britons the go ahead to drive to beauty spots for exercise.
Addressing the nation in a pre-recorded message on Sunday evening, the Prime Minister sketched out his “road map” for easing the UK lockdown.
Among these, Mr Johnson said the Government would be encouraging people to take “unlimited amounts of outdoor exercise” and, from Wednesday, the public would be allowed to “drive to other destinations.”
Communities nestled into areas of natural beauty shared their shock at the news, fearing a surge in tourists would leave them at risk of a spike in infections.
The tourism board of Cumbria, home of the Lake District, tweeted: “We are shocked by the timing and short notice of tonight’s announcement.
“We are awaiting further details but the safety of residents must come first. For now, tourism businesses in Cumbria remain closed and we urge everyone to continue to #StayHome.”
In a separate Twitter post, the national park's chief executive Richard Leafe, wrote: "This could be very difficult for the communities of the Lake District and Cumbria.
"Please don’t rush to visit us."
The National Trust also acknowledged the announcement from Number 10 by reviewing plans to reopen sites.
An NT spokesworman said: “Following the Prime Minister’s broadcast outlining the Government’s gradual road map out of lockdown, we will begin to review its effect on our reopening plans."
Last week, the trust said it was working on plans to reopen sites, which have been shut to the public since March 24.
