Parking off limits on route
A parking ban have been enforced on a 14-mile stretch of rural road after it had to be shut due to an influx of day trippers, writes Chris Marzella.
Now, the council have implemented the emergency measures on the A821 Duke’s Pass in a bid to protect public safety.
The emergency order will restrict parking along the length of the A821, between Kilmahog and Aberfoyle, to keep the area clear of parked cars.
Stirling Council has taken the decision in response to continued irresponsible parking along the route in order to protect and support local communities, businesses and road users.
On the first weekend of the eased lockdown police had to close the road as a result of the volume of traffic, making it difficult for vehicles to pass safely.
The new emergency restriction will allow for enforcement action to be taken by council officers and for Police Scotland to respond to issues of dangerous or obstructive parking.
The council is also working with partners to implement a permanent clearway along the stretch of road to help regulate traffic activity, increase safety and provide more certainty to other road users.
The council says that introducing a clearway would be the second stage of a strategy to combat traffic issues on the A821 that was agreed with Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, Police Scotland and the local community last summer, following the introduction of a reduced speed limit of 40mph.
Convener of the environment and housing committee, Councillor Jim Thomson, said:“It’s disappointing that drivers continue to park in an irresponsible manner on sections of the A821.
“Their actions are causing serious problems for both drivers, local communities and businesses, resulting in the need for these emergency parking restrictions.
“We have been in engaging with other agencies, including Police Scotland, and local community groups and businesses for the past 12 months about the introduction of safety measures on the A821, and will continue to do what is necessary to keep people safe.”
Trossachs ad Teith councillor, Martin Earl said:“These restrictions were effective and need to stay in place supported by a joint enforcement patrols by both police and council officers. There also needs to be a longer term solution found.
“This is just one example of many similar locations across the country where the investment in infrastructure has not kept pace with their promotion as destinations.”