Parking concerns at rural Stirling hotspots raised by MP ahead of summer season
Stirling's MP has called for "clear action" over the issue of cars being parked illegally on roads alongside Loch Lomond and Loch Lubnaig which have both faced long-term issues.
Illegally parked cars are causing chaos on roads around rural Stirling beauty spots, with the local MP calling for a crackdown on the issue.
Chris Kane MP has called for 'clear action' on any vehicles parked illegally on roads that run alongside Loch Lomond and Loch Lubnaig.
The A84 that runs alongside Loch Lubnaig between Kilmahog and Strathyre has had long term issues with cars parking illegally along the banks, blocking traffic, causing congestion and blocking emergency vehicles.
Locals have long-term campaigned for this to be cracked down on, calling on Transport Scotland and Police Scotland to closely monitor the area, especially during the summer season where tourists flock to the area.
Earlier this month, Police Scotland Forth Valley encouraged road users to avoid the road due to parked cars blocking traffic, in a post on Facebook.
The C6 clearway has also had longstanding issues with illegally parked cars. The road which runs between Balmaha to Rowardennan alongside Loch Lomond is a popular beauty spot with Scots and tourists alike, especially during the summer months.
Unlike the A84, the road is operated by Stirling Council, and there have been calls for the council to put more resources towards the area to crack down on illegal parking.
Mr Kane said: 'Not only is the illegal parking obstructive to locals, causing major disruption, but it is also dangerous, especially when emergency vehicles are unable to use the roads to get to incidents quickly.
'Many constituents have been in touch, concerned with this very serious issue, and I have written to the chief executive of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority to see what action they are taking to assist with this issue.
'Ultimately, the illegally parked cars are coming to use their facilities, and they should be part of the coordinated solution to this ever-growing problem.'
Police Forth Valley have asked anyone visiting beauty spots throughout Forth Valley to 'please park considerately', saying: 'The lochs and hills around Forth Valley are a popular destination, and we welcome visitors.
'To ensure everyone can enjoy it safely and respectfully, please remember: use designated parking areas where available; if parking on the road, ensure you are not blocking access for residents, emergency services, or farm vehicles; avoid parking on blind bends or hill crests where your vehicle creates a serious hazard; and 'if in doubt, don't park there'.
'A short walk from a safer parking spot is always better than creating a dangerous obstruction. Let's keep Forth Valley beautiful and accessible for all.'
Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park Authority has also pleaded with visitors act sensibly over parking, pointing out that some car parks have already been at capacity in the morning over recent weekends.
They added: 'If a car park is full, have a plan B to visit another location. Irresponsible and illegal parking such as verge parking, double-parking and blocking access can lead to Police Scotland and local authorities closing roads, issuing fines and vehicles being towed.
'Please don't be aggressive towards our staff who are simply trying to do their job. This isn't OK and absolutely will not be tolerated. Recent instances of extremely aggressive verbal and even physical abuse have had to be reported to Police Scotland.
'And, if you want to get away from it all and enjoy a quieter area of the National Park, check out our #DifferentAdenture advice at https://www.lochlomond-trossachs.org.
'With 720 sq miles of wonderful places to visit – you're spoiled for choice.'
A Stirling Council spokesperson said: 'We are delighted to welcome people from across Scotland and beyond to enjoy the Stirling area's stunning natural surroundings during the tourism season. However, we continue to urge all visitors to take responsibility and be respectful of other road users by parking in a safe and legal way.
'Please plan your journey in advance and head to an alternative location if it is busy and not possible to park legally. Drivers can and will be penalised for failing to do so. We will continue to work with key partners to support our rural communities and ensure roads are safe and accessible during tourist season.'
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