Extra toilets, parking and litter squad
More staff, toilets and parking capacity are among the measures that will be in place across Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park when travel restrictions ease on April 26.
A plan has been developed for the 2021 season by the National Park Authority and partners including Police Scotland, Transport Scotland, Forestry & Land Scotland and the four local authorities that cover the area.
There was a surge in visitors in 2020 as lockdown measures eased and it is expected there will be similar demand for day trips and staycations when restrictions ease over the coming months.
Key issues from 2020 included irresponsible parking and road congestion, littering, and antisocial behaviour associated with some informal camping.
This year, all organisations involved in managing visitor pressures in the National Park have worked together to increase resources and presence on the ground, including:
■ Additional public toilets in busy locations and extended toilet opening hours
■ 40 seasonal National Park Rangers, in addition to permanent Rangers
■ A new team of environment officers to tackle littering and fly-tipping
■ Expanded car parking capacity planned at locations such as Ben A’an and Trossachs Pier at Loch Katrine
■New traffic signage and clearways to reduce congestion and irresponsible parking
■ Extra overnight parking for motorhomes to reduce pressure on day visitor car parks.
Chief Superintendent Alan Gibson, Divisional Commander for Forth Valley, said:“If you are visiting beauty spots within your local area, do so safely and respectfully – leaving no trace of your visit. Please also park responsibly to allow emergency access.”
More information and advice for those planning a visit to the National Park once travel restrictions are lifted can be found at www.lochlomondtrossachs.org/visitors