LOCAL businesses are expected to receive a boost of around £1m from 'eco-tourists' holidaying at a revamped cabin complex in the North York Moors.

The Forestry Commission has spent £5m refurbishing Keldy Forest Cabins, near Pickering, on the edge of the 8,600-acre Cropton Forest.

Famous environmentalist and broadcaster David Bellamy unveiled a plaque to mark the opening of 60 cabins designed to tap into the growing market of environmental tourism, where the biggest attraction is the landscape and its wildlife.

Mr Bellamy said: "People can stay here and see a true cross-section of the biodiversity in Yorkshire's forests. You can come here and see everything that really should be here - even the otters are coming back. The North York Moors is one of the jewels in the crown of Britain."

Keldy Cabins opened in 1973 and is managed by Forest Holidays, which is a branch of the Forestry Commission. All of the cabins at Keldy were replaced and rebuilt with pine and spruce from sustainable forests.

Forest district manager Andrew Smith said: "Facilities on the site are deliberately low-key, allowing local businesses to benefit. Keldy is a unique asset and one that allows people of all ages to connect with the environment, see starry skies at night, and have fun exploring."

Visitors can take advantage of miles of forest walks and cycle trails, wildlife hides, nature trails, orienteering and ranger-led activities. For more information on Keldy Cabins, visit www.forestholidays.co.uk.

Updated: 09:50 Wednesday, February 25, 2004