4x4s and trail motorbikes have been banned from Gatesgarth Pass in the Lakes in an effort to protect the track from erosion. Our original information suggested that horses and horse-drawn carriages were excluded too, but it turns out that that’s not the case – they were initially (largely due to the practical difficulty of allowing horses and carriages in while keeping 4x4s and motorbikes out). But now horse riders can apply for a monthly permit and will receive the combination number to unlock the gates. The number will be changed monthly. We’re not quite sure what stops the motorised fraternity from sneakily applying for the code number, but still…

The National Park Authority have taken the action in response to the damage inflicted upon the pass. At the moment there’s an outright ban, but from the beginning of November a permit system will be introduced and the track opened up for just one day a month. Just 40 permits will be issued for that day, 15 for 4x4s and 25 for motorbikes.

Mountain bikes, meanwhile, can continue to use the trail at any time. You’ll have to lift your bike over the locked gates, though.

The permit scheme is a pilot, and the effects will be monitored over the next year. David Robinson, Trails Management Officer for the Lake District National Park, told us that there are currently no plans to limit bike access to any Lakeland passes. But it’s worth bearing in mind that the Park Authority can close trails or ban certain categories of trail user from passing over them. So ride light…