Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park camping by-laws come into force
I wasn't surprised to see this happen in Loch Lomond to be honest. It seems that our beautiful parks and country areas are falling more and more victim to litter, excessive noise and idiots who cannot behave themselves. I was brought up to follow the countryside code: lock gates behind you, pick up your litter, don't trespass etc...
These days our hills and valleys are full of drunk fools setting fire to trees, cars and anything else they can get their hands on. I've lost count of the amount of broken bottles and torn beer cans I've taken to a bin that was only a few feet away from their dumping ground. What is the problem with these people?
The Loch Lomond area is one of the most beautiful areas in the world and it is under regular attack from folk who lack any form of respect for the people who live there... or the tourists and the wildlife. I have total respect for the parks authorities and the wonderful work they do. A small army of workers busily tidy up our mess and fix all the things we break along the way. They do their best to minimise disruption and are always willing to offer help and advice should you need it. I, for one, feel happier walking outdoors knowing there are people nearby who are looking after our stunning countryside.
Doing something to ensure that drunken idiots won't get the opportunity to ruin the areas that we love and enjoy is surely a good thing... On the other hand though, it does seem unfair that the majority of us who know how to behave are being forced to pay for the ones who cannot. This kind of system can only work if the area is 'policed' and patrolled properly with heavy fines and convictions for those who leave the mess behind. But being such a large area, can this be a practical solution? As usual, there will be two sides to the debate... I'm all for legislation as long as its fair and equal - but not if it just puts more money into the local governments hands without any signs of improvement.
Anyway... rant over... i'm off to Loch Lomond 🙂
You can read more about the new by-laws over at the BBC News website:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-tayside-central-39117802