Byelaw threat to Scottish access
Controversial proposed byelaws to curb wild camping in Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park have been denounced by Scotland’s outdoors groups. The park authority wants to restrict camping to designated sites along 14 sq km of the popular east shore of Loch Lomond, leading to a regulation of access accompanied by criminal sanctions that, Ramblers Scotland argues, would undermine right to roam legislation. If the byelaws are given approval, it could also trigger further byelaw requests from landowning interests across Scotland.
Helen Todd, Ramblers Scotland’s development officer, says: “There are serious problems beside Loch Lomond due to overuse and bad behaviour at some times of the year, but most believe that improved loch-shore management, enforcement of a forthcoming alcohol consumption ban, and more effective policing should be the priority.” The results of a consultation about the byelaws were due as we went to press. For the latest news, visit tinyurl.com/campingbyelaws.
You can read about Paul Lamarra’s experiences of Loch Lomond’s east shore in our feature on the area.
