Police ramp up patrols as Lochaber visitor numbers rise
Police patrols Lochaber have been stepped up following reports of increased activity of domestic motor vehicles on the A82, writes Fiona Scott.
While the majority of locals in the region have been adhering to the legal requirements of social distancing, there have increasing worries that, as the weather continues to improve, the number of visitors travelling up the Glasgow to Inverness trunk road, via Fort William, is on the rise.
Fort William Inspector Isla Campbell told the Lochaber Times that the police were aware of the reports of tourists coming to visit the area and were acting on them.
‘Our patrols have been stepped up at key locations, including dog walking areas, parks and other green spaces as well as surrounding roads,’ in she said. ‘I would urge community members to contact police on 101 with their concerns regarding a breach of the current legal requirements at the time they observe them, so we can investigate promptly.
‘If you are out and about, officers may engage with you and ask why. Please explain your individual circumstances to them and listen to their instructions.
‘We will always encourage compliance but, as a last resort, we will use the enforcement powers which are in place.’
Inspector Campbell reiterated that it was vital that everyone continues to adhere to the physical distancing guidance and that people do not become complacent and assume that because we are in a rural area that it will be fine to go out and about as we did during ‘the old normal’ again.
‘I’d like to thank the people of Lochaber for their response so far,’ she added.
‘These are challenging times for everyone and I’m grateful to those who have made significant changes to their daily habits and routines.
‘As the restrictions continue, it’s important that we maintain this discipline to stay at home in order to protect the NHS and save lives.’
Police Scotland and the Scottish Government have repeatedly issued clear guidance that says the public should only use their car for essential reasons, such as going to the shops or taking essentials to a vulnerable person.
Essential travel does not include driving to the countryside or beauty hotspots. email us at fort@obantimes.co.uk telephone 01397 703003