All-terrain Tramper mobility scooters boost accessibility in fifth National Park beauty spot
Keldy Forest in the North York Moors has become the fifth location in the National Park with its own all-terrain Tramper mobility vehicle, available for visitors to hire.
Forest Holidays at Keldy joins Sutton Bank National Park Centre, Ravenscar Visitor Centre, Dalby Forest Visitor Centre and Forest Holidays at Cropton as landscapes that can now be enjoyed by all.
This year, work to open-up the National Park to more people with accessibility requirements has been recognised with a national award. The North York Moors Accessibility project, led by VisitEngland, saw local businesses and attractions enhance their awareness and facilities and encourage more people with additional needs to take short breaks in the region.
The collaboration, which included ‘mystery shopping’ by local people with disabilities, partnerships with disabled influencers and an ‘inspirational’ YouTube video, scooped Digital PR Campaign of the Year at the TravMedia Awards.
In parallel to this achievement, the National Park Authority has continued its work with Outdoor Mobility to introduce Trampers in more locations around the North York Moors, and now Forest Holidays at Keldy has become the latest location to introduce its own bookable vehicle. A second Tramper has also been made available for hire at Sutton Bank National Park Centre.
Users of the Tramper network in the North York Moors include 17-year old Evie Cass from Kirkbymoorside, who takes the opportunity to join her family on routes she wouldn’t otherwise be able to manage. Evie said:
“We’ve always been an outdoorsy family and walking with the dogs in the countryside was something I did daily. The fact that I can still get out on a Tramper and spend time in the woods or see the view from Sutton Bank is so lovely. They’re easy to use and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone.”
For those visiting from further afield, the North York Moors Accessibility project saw 12 tourism businesses, including accommodation and activity providers, develop their offer for those with additional requirements.
Catriona McLees, Head of Marketing and Communications at the North York Moors National Park Authority, said: “The work with VisitEngland on the Accessibility Project has been extremely valuable for both ourselves and each of the businesses involved. It has truly galvanised commitments to be ambitious and progressive when it comes to access for all, and we are delighted to see the work recognised with a national award.”
Those wanting to use a Tramper can visit outdoormobility.org to become a member and to book a vehicle. Membership starts from £2.50 for a two-week taster, with annual membership costing only £10. This gives access to a growing network of Trampers across England and there is no additional fee at any of the North York Moors sites.
