Perthshire residents explore ways to tackle lochside louts

ENVIRONMENT: Locals working with various agencies to help protect Clunie

Steps are being taken to secure the safety of visitors to a Perthshire beauty spot which has had a spike in visitors over lockdown.

Wild campers, drinkers and daytrippers have become a common sight at Loch Clunie, near Blairgowrie, and local residents are working with a range of forces to maintain safety at the site.

The situation came to a head at the first easing of lockdown restrictions when a 57-year-old man was allegedly stabbed at the loch.

A meeting held by locals identified a string of steps they would like to see taken.

These included introducing basic signage around the loch, including signs with phone numbers for people to report unacceptable behaviour.

Residents are also looking to campaign for a total ban on overnight camping in the area.

The idea of installing crash barriers to block off parts of the road used by overnight visitors is also being explored.

Strathtay ward councillor Grant Laing, who chaired the meeting, said he has already been in contact with community safety officers in the council.

He said: “We’re looking to supplement the police patrols and we’re engaging with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service after an increase in campfires being lit.

“Police have stepped up their patrols and we’re speaking with the council’s roads team too.

“There could also be a role to play for wildlife protection officers, which we’re looking into.

“Nobody wants to ban everybody, we just want to make the loch more pleasant for everyone.

“It’s a site of special scientific interest and we want to see it treated as one.”

More discussions will be held.

Disgraceful sight: Some of the rubbish that’s been dumped near Clunie by fly-tippers during the lockdown.