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loch-lomond-and-trossachs-national-park-authority-headquarters-building-made-of-stone-and-with-slate-roof-logo-prominent-next-to-entrance

Statement from Gordon Watson, Chief Executive of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority

Following an extremely busy weekend due to warm weather conditions, we want to thank the majority of visitors who enjoyed the National Park responsibly and safely. Despite an extreme wildfire warning being in place, we are pleased to report no major fire-related incidents occurred, and we thank the public for their support and co-operation. 

Although we anticipated and planned for such a busy weekend with considerable efforts in place to manage very high visitor numbers, unfortunately our teams encountered challenging conditions, particularly at popular locations including Milarrochy Bay, Luss and Balloch. Our teams, working alongside Police Scotland and Local Authorities dealt with high numbers of irresponsible and illegal parking, littering, water safety incidents, as well as numerous byelaw infractions. It also reinforces the need for people to plan ahead and where there is congestion consider alternative places to visit in the National Park. Our Trossachs Explorer Service is a great way to avoid the heavy traffic and leave the car at home.  

Unfortunately, National Park Rangers faced completely unacceptable aggressive behaviour from some members of the public while carrying out their duties to protect both people and the environment. This behaviour towards our staff and the staff of our partner agencies is entirely unacceptable and will not be tolerated. 

Covering over 720 square miles, we work closely with partner agencies to help ensure everyone can enjoy the park safely. We once again urge all visitors to take personal responsibility when visiting our National Park – please be respectful of our precious environment and the dedicated teams and local communities working to protect it. 

Key advice:  

  • Temperatures will be high but the water in our lochs and rivers remains very cold, Cold Water Shock is a serious risk. 
  • Never enter the water alone, avoid alcohol around water and always wear appropriate PPE such as a wetsuit, buoyancy air or lifejacket 
  • Plan your trip, expect it to be busy especially at hotspot areas such as Balloch Park, Luss, Milarrochy and Duck Bay – always have a Plan B and if car parks are full, go to an alternative location and do not park on verges  
  • Be responsible for your own actions, take litter home, leave no trace and look out for others on land and in the water so that everyone can stay safe and enjoy the countryside. 
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