Protecting the North Lees Estate verges
Wednesday 11 November 2026
New byelaws to prevent verge parking
The Peak District National Park Authority will be implementing new byelaws at North Lees Estate in early 2027. These byelaws will apply to land owned and managed by the Authority and are designed to protect this special landscape by preventing vehicles from parking on roadside verges across the estate.
The byelaws will be enforced by Peak District National Park Authority staff and car park enforcement contractors. Those found in breach of the Byelaws could be fined up to £500 plus any additional legal fees. All fines are paid to the court and do not go towards supporting the Peak District National Park Authority.
You can download the draft byelaws (10.3MB), maps are included to show the extent of land covered in the byelaws.
What do the byelaws mean?
The byelaws will prohibit parking on the designated roadside verges in the North Lees Estate, making it an offence with a fine of up to £500.
Exemptions include:
- Emergency vehicles responding to incidents.
- Emergency works or utility repair vehicles.
- Vehicles authorised by the Peak District National Park Authority, for example local farmers and estate managers.
- Circumstances where stopping is necessary to avoid an accident or obstruction.
Why are the byelaws needed?
North Lees Estate is one of the Peak District's most popular destinations, attracting walkers, climbers, cyclists, runners and families throughout the year. Due to this popularity, we are seeing a continued increase of vehicles parked on grass verges throughout the estate.
- Protecting nationally important habitats: Whilst seemingly unremarkable, many of these roadside verges form part of a Site of Scientific Special Interest (SSSI). Parking on these verges can cause significant damage to the plants, wildlife and habitats found there.
- Protecting the landscape: Verge parking has a significant visual impact on the landscape for miles around for visitors and residents alike. Designated car parking areas ensure vehicles have a lower visual impact.
- Keeping roads clear and safe: The byelaws will ensure essential access to the roads and surrounding land for emergency services, local farmers and maintenance vehicles.
Where should I park?
There are four designated off-road car parking areas across the estate with plenty of available spaces. There are also a number of designated off road (layby) parking spaces at Burbage Bridge, Higger Tor and Callow Bank.
- Burbage Bridge Car Park – 40 spaces
- Hooks Carr Car Park – 53 spaces
- Hollin Bank Car Park – 85 spaces
- Dennis Knoll Car Park – 55 spaces
Supporting responsible enjoyment of the estate
The new byelaws are intended to balance visitation to this beautiful location with the protection of the important habitats and wildlife found here, whilst ensuring the vital access and safety of our local communities, farmers and emergency services.
By parking responsibly in designated car parks, you are helping us to protect our National Park for future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I park on the grass verge if the car parks are full?
No. The byelaws prohibit parking on the designated verges even when nearby car parks are busy. Visitors should use designated parking facilities or consider visiting at quieter times.
Who will be allowed to park on the verges?
The byelaws include exemptions for emergency situations and are intended to help maintain access for emergency services, farmers, and authorised vehicles.
Why not simply continue to allow verge parking?
Verge parking damages important habitats and obstructs vital access for necessary vehicles. These byelaws will protect the landscape you came to enjoy and ensure safer access for everyone.
Who is responsible for the byelaws?
The byelaws are being introduced and enforced by the Peak District National Park Authority.