The Lake District could be set for a welcome economic boost,, as plans have been touted to allow caravan parks and campsites to reopen for the first time since the coronavirus pandemic began.

The plans have been welcomed by Cumbria Police, which has been given the difficult task of enforcing the Government's ever-changing lockdown guidelines.

As we report on page 15 of today's The Mail, Cumbria Constabulary's Assistant Chief Constable Andy Slattery said he would welcome the phased reopening of self-catering and camping sites in a ‘Covidsafe manner’.

Currently, camping and caravan sites are scheduled to reopen from Saturday July 4 as the UK moves into the final phase of lockdown easing.

The return of overnight stays in the Lake District, albeit not in hotels, could provide a vital lifeline for a tourism industry which is suffering badly through the coronavirus pandemic.

Research from Cumbria Tourism indicates that the cost of coronavirus may reach £1.45bn by the end of this month for this county alone.

Reports also indicate that up to 80% of the hospitality industry are furloughed.

Getting people back to the Lake District, although in a safe, controlled manner, will be vital in order to get the national park and the communities that live there back on their feet.