There are calls for Cumbria to adopt more sustainable transport and tourism initiatives now that the Lake District has been declared a World Heritage site.

It is widely acknowledged that the new status, announced by UNESCO on Sunday, will spark an increase in visitors who will provide an economic boost to the county.

But leading figures say there must be fresh focus on efforts to reduce the risk of harm that influx may bring to the landscape and the county's cultural heritage.

Around 18 million people a year currently visit the area.

The landscape charity Friends of the Lake District was a member of the Lake District National Park Partnership that successfully bid for the World Heritage status.

Douglas Chalmers, chief executive of Friends of the Lake District, said: "Our cultural heritage has evolved over many generations and we want to see this continue with no harm to the landscape in the future.

"So, although we welcome this inscription, we have some concerns that the resultant increase in publicity and awareness of the Lake District may lead to more unsustainable tourism – and not just an increase in international flights. Of more direct significance to Cumbria, we could see an increase in car journeys and a greater threat of inappropriate developments.

"We should take this opportunity to develop and adopt more sustainable tourism practices and transport solutions that reduce the risk of harm to our landscape while contributing to economic benefits."

Mr Chalmers also believes developing sustainable tourism will give tourists more reason to visit.

He added: "This gives everyone a fresh opportunity to ensure that the park is managed in a sustainable way to guarantee the unique qualities are there for future generations to discover."

A leading business figure also wants to see a commitment to improving the county's infrastructure, whether it be bus routes, cycle routes or roads.

Andy Jackson, managing director of Penrith-based H&H Reeds Printers, also believes the new status is an opportunity for all local firms.

Providing print products to the local tourism businesses is the biggest part of the firm's operation.

Mr Jackson said: "There is so much more to do in this area than just visiting one of the major towns or walking the nearest fell.

"We all need to work together to ensure that the Lake District becomes recognised and used as an all-encompassing year-round tourism destination."