TRANSPORT projects in the Yorkshire Dales have been singled out by the Government for praise for good practice.

A Department for Transport guide for local authorities highlights the Dales Bus Discount Scheme, which boosts tourism and businesses by providing discounts for visitors and attracting more people to visit the area by public transport.

A collaboration with Harvey Maps to produce walking, cycling and visitor guides to the National Park was also praised.

It was singled out because it involved a private sector partner promoting the Park's sustainable travel and tourism messages.

Also highlighted was the Grassington Interchange, next to the Yorkshire Dales National Park Visitor Centre in the village, which includes facilities for cyclists, walkers, motorists and public transport users.

The interchange was praised for its approach to partnership funding and for the way it meets the needs of motorists, bus passengers, cyclists and walkers.

Minister for rural affairs Jim Knight said: "With more and more people visiting National Parks in England and Wales, it is important to encourage transport and traffic management schemes which successfully balance the twin purposes of the parks - safeguarding their sensitive environments while providing opportunities for recreation and enjoyment.

After investigating how English and Welsh national parks were dealing with visitor travel and reducing the impacts of traffic on the environment, some of the most successful schemes have been showcased in this new guide.