Latest news with #ScottishOutdoorAccessCode
Scottish Sun
a day ago
- Politics
- Scottish Sun
New NC500 rangers deployed to crack down on illegal tourist behaviour that's hated by locals
There are currently 16 Access Rangers on patrol RANGER RESPONSE New NC500 rangers deployed to crack down on illegal tourist behaviour that's hated by locals A SMALL army of council rangers has started patrolling the North Coast 500 road trip route and other areas of the Highlands to crack down on illegal tourist behaviour. Irresponsible camping and a ban on fires in many areas are a top priority this year. Advertisement 3 Council rangers have started patrolling the NC500 route in a bid to crack down on illegal tourist behaviour Credit: Alamy 3 Campers have been leaving piles of human waste, dirty toilet paper, and heaps of rubbish along the route Credit: Facebook 3 And motorhome users have been blasted for causing congestion on narrow roads and dangerous driving Credit: Alamy The weekend saw the first patrols of The Highland Council's new Seasonal Access Ranger team. The new rangers will seek to promote and advise on responsible access to the countryside through the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. The team is funded directly by The Highland Council. There are currently 16 Access Rangers on patrol with two more to join in mid-June, focusing on the long-distance routes. Advertisement Five of the rangers are highly experienced, having returned after previous seasons, and can help guide new rangers into their roles. Economy and Infrastructure Committee Chair, Cllr Ken Gowans said: "The Council are pleased to be able to provide a seasonal rangers service this year and so far, the team have been welcomed by visitors and locals alike, with a friendly approach to encouraging responsible behaviour. 'The Council recognise the importance of supporting communities to manage the increase in visitors across the area, particularly along the NC500, Skye, Lochaber, Wester Ross and Loch Ness. 'A key role for the rangers will be engaging with the public and raising awareness of the Outdoor Access Code and communicating to people that, as individuals, we all play an important role in ensuring that the Highlands' beautiful outdoor spaces are protected for all to enjoy for future generations.' Advertisement Rangers will also ensure awareness of other relevant legislation, such as parking and environmental health regulations. They will monitor use and report incidents to the relevant council teams or emergency services. The North Coast 500: Scotland's Must-Visit Road Trip Beats the Grand Canyon The rangers will also carry out duties to keep tidy, maintain and manage council-owned sites, core paths and work with communities and land managers on other sites to protect habitats and encourage respect for the landscape. Where possible, the rangers will work with local volunteers to engage with visitors. Advertisement The council added: 'This year, responsible camping will be a key priority, and, in many locations, this will mean a 'no fires' message. There is a significant fire risk throughout the Highlands in the summer months and lighting campfires on peaty ground, woodland, grassland, or moors is dangerous and contrary to the Code. 'It is irresponsible to light fires close to buildings, historic monuments and within 30m of a public road. Even small fires cause significant damage to our natural environment from scorch marks to tree removal and the use of dead wood - housing insects - for fires. Much of this damage can take years to recover.'
Scottish Sun
23-05-2025
- Scottish Sun
Scotland's best campervan and caravan routes revealed with stunning scenic spots
Read on for the top 10 list ROAD TRIP Scotland's best campervan and caravan routes revealed with stunning scenic spots Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) TOURING Scotland in a campervan is a great way to enjoy the stunning scenery the country has to offer. And with the summer holidays just around the corner, you might be starting to think about planning a staycation. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 6 VisitScotland have created a list of the top 10 campervan routes Credit: Getty With the freedom to travel wherever you want, it can be a bit tricky to decide on where to go. VisitScotland has now shared a list of the best tour spots for summer to help holidaymakers plan their journey. They have listed the top 10 drives across Scotland featuring picturesque beauty spots and holiday parks. VisitScotland stated: "Get behind the wheel of a caravan or campervan and explore Scotland's wide-open landscapes before setting up at one of our beautiful campsites. "You'll find plenty of caravan sites and holiday parks offering peaceful overnight stays — many in stunning scenic locations. "Not sure where to begin? Check the Scottish Outdoor Access Code for tips on responsible camping and how to travel with care. "There are also lots of places across Scotland where you can hire or rent a campervan. "Just be sure to plan ahead and book in advance, especially during peak seasons." Here are the top 10 campervan routes to take this summer. 1. Gretna Green to Edinburgh This quiet inland route from Gretna Green to Edinburgh offers motorists a relaxed drive through pretty Borders towns and countryside. You can make several stop to visit the ruined abbeys of Jedburgh and Melrose, explore castles and museums. There's also a decent choice of caravan parks, and many vibrant small towns and villages. This Borders route is perfect for campervan explorers looking for a slower, cultural escape. 6 Make a trip to the ruins of Jedburgh Abbey on the Gretna Green to Edinburgh route Credit: Getty 2. Kincardine to Newport-on-Tay Motorists can discover the joys on the east coast along this stunning route. Along the way, you can take in popular spots such as Aberdour Castle, the East Neuk fishing villages of Anstruther and Crail, and the historic town of St Andrews. There are plenty of places to enjoy the local food and coastal walks - as well as several campsites. 3. Blair Atholl Number three on the list is Blair Atholl in Perthshire. This is just a stone's throw away from the popular holiday destinations of Pitlochry, Aberfeldy and Dunkeld. This picturesque spot in the Cairngorms National Park allows you to get away from the hustle and bustle, while still offering plenty to do. Pitch up at Blair Castle Caravan Park which offers a wide range of outdoor activities. 6 Blair Castle has a stunning backdrop of the Cairngorms Credit: Alamy 4. Glasgow to Machrihanish If you live in Scotland's biggest city then this might be the route for you. It will take travellers along the Kintyre penunsula - which is one of Scotland's most secluded destinations. Follow the A82 from Glasgow as it winds past Loch Lomond before a three-hour journey down the A83, sometimes referred to as 'the long and winding road'. Along the way, take in the Rest and Be Thankful Pass, skim the shores of the picturesque Loch Fyne, and pass the stately Inveraray Castle. Eventually you will reach Machrihanish Holiday Park which is perfect for golf lovers as it has a view overlooking the acclaimed Machrihanish Dunes golf course. 5. Scone Palace Scone Palace is the original home of the ancient Stone of Destiny. But if you pull into the estate, you can pitch up at Scone Camping & Caravaning Club Site. You could be sharing your pitch with stunning wildlife as deer, buzzards, owls and ospreys have all been spotted here. Take your time to explore the grounds and enjoy a peaceful walk along the River Tay. 6 Scone Palace is the original home of the ancient Stone of Destiny Credit: Alamy 6. Edinburgh to St Andrews This route will take drivers from the Scottish capital to one of the most scenic seaside towns over the Queensferry Crossing. Continue along the scenic coastal route around East Neuk, stopping to call in at pretty fishing villages like Anstruther, Elie and Pittenweem before you reach St Andrews. VisitScotland recommends spending a day or two in the East Neuk at Elie Holiday Park at Shell Bay, Woodland Gardens Caravan & Camping in Leven or St Monans Holiday Park. 7. South West Coastal 300 The South West Coastal 300 combines scenic coastlines, idyllic hillsides, forest trails and historic towns like Dumfries and Stranraer. It is a circular drive along the southwest corner of the country. VisitScotland describes the roads as "quiet with campervan-friendly stopovers". There are plenty of family-run campsites and forest parks to make this a laid back road trip. 8. Dundee to Aberdeen VisitScotland recommends taking a trip along the A92 on the "rugged" east coast. It's a great route for campervan holidays - with plenty of seaside stopovers, charming towns and cliffside castles along the way. Take time to explore Arbroath Abbey, sample the famous Arbroath Smokie, or stroll the sands at Lunan Bay. There are campsites throughout the region, including coastal pitches and family-run holiday parks. 6 The trip along the A92 is full of picturesque sandy beaches like Lunan Bay Credit: Alamy 9. Ayr to Stranraer Starting in the historic town of Ayr, take the A77 south along the coastline, passing through charming villages such as Girvan and Ballantrae. You can stop off and take in the dramatic ruins of Dunure Castle, the picturesque harbour at Portpatrick, and the Mull of Galloway Lighthouse, the southernmost point in Scotland. There are plenty of campsites along the way with many sandy beaches to explore and cliff-top walks to enjoy. 10. North East 250 The lesser-known North East 250 rounds out the top 10 on the VisitScotland list. This route starts in Aberdeen, and takes travellers on a 250-mile journey through Speyside's whisky distilleries, the foothills of the Cairngorms, and along the dramatic Moray Firth coast. It follows mostly A-roads and wide B-roads, making it well-suited to motorhomes and campervans. It's a leisurely option for roadtrippers with loads of well-equipped campsites, caravan parks and attractions offering designated parking.
The Herald Scotland
16-05-2025
- Climate
- The Herald Scotland
All of Scotland at 'extreme' wildfire risk amid no flame plea
The hot, dry weather makes ideal conditions for fire to spread and most wildfires are caused by human activity. Area commander Michael Humphreys, SFR wildfire lead said: "Responsible human behaviour can significantly lower the chance of a wildfire starting. Read More: "That's why we're urging people to absolutely avoid the use of naked flames, including barbecues, at this time. "It only takes one spark to start a wildfire and things can get out of hand very, very quickly. "Discarded cigarettes and unsupervised campfires pose a significant threat, so it's vital to follow all safety advice when outdoors and to make sure you are familiar with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code at all times." An extreme wildfire warning map for all of Scotland (Image: Scottish Fire and Rescue Service) Remote and rural communities, in particular, are impacted by wildfire. Area Commander Humphreys added: "Many rural and remote communities are hugely impacted by wildfires, which can cause significant damage. "Livestock, farmland, wildlife, protected woodland and sites of special scientific interest can all be devastated by these fires - as can the lives of people living and working in rural communities. "These fires can also have a hugely negative impact on the environment and the release of air polluting gases into the atmosphere." The SFRS has an array of wildfire prevention and safety advice on its website.
Scotsman
16-05-2025
- Climate
- Scotsman
Extreme wildfires: Scotland warned against naked flames outdoors 'at all costs' this weekend
With an extreme risk of wildfires in place across Scotland this weekend, firefighters have warned the public to avoid naked flames outdoors 'at all costs'. Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... An 'extreme' wildfire warning has been issued across all of Scotland this weekend, as the warm weather looks set to continue. The Scottish public have been warned against open flames outdoors. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) are urging people to avoid the use of naked flames outdoors 'at all costs', with much of the country facing an extreme risk of wildfire until Monday, May 19. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad They add that the vast majority of wildfires are caused by human behaviour. It only takes one spark to start a wildfire and things can get out of hand very, very quickly.' Area Commander Michael Humphreys, SFR Wildfire Lead It follows on from a previous wildfire warning put in place last week following the driest start to the year in Scotland since 1964. Scottish Water has even urged customers to use supplies sparingly to help supply systems cope with demand as a result of the recent dry weather. Area Commander Michael Humphreys, the SFR Wildfire Lead, said: 'Responsible human behaviour can significantly lower the chance of a wildfire starting. 'That's why we're urging people to absolutely avoid the use of naked flames, including barbecues, at this time. It only takes one spark to start a wildfire and things can get out of hand very, very quickly. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'Discarded cigarettes and unsupervised campfires pose a significant threat, so it's vital to follow all safety advice when outdoors and to make sure you are familiar with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code at all times.' Scotland warned no naked flames outdoors amid extreme wildfire risk Wildfires have the potential to burn for days, devastating large areas of land and wildlife and threatening nearby communities - particularly those in rural locations. Area Commander Humphreys added: 'Many rural and remote communities are hugely impacted by wildfires, which can cause significant damage. 'Livestock, farmland, wildlife, protected woodland and sites of special scientific interest can all be devastated by these fires - as can the lives of people living and working in rural communities. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'These fires can also have a hugely negative impact on the environment and the release of air polluting gases into the atmosphere.'
Daily Record
15-05-2025
- Climate
- Daily Record
Visitors to National Park warned to avoid open flames amid high risk of wildfires this weekend
Stirling is among the areas which have already seen damage from fires, many of them avoidable - with more high temperatures forecast this weekend. Visitors to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park are being asked to take a 'no flames' approach this weekend, with risk of wildfires at a high. As sunny weather and dry conditions are set to continue this weekend, senior members of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), Police Scotland, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority, and West Dunbartonshire Council have come together to strengthen their multi-agency efforts to raise awareness of the dangers of wildfires. SFRS has issued an extreme wildfire risk warning for all areas of Scotland, which will remain in place through to Monday, May 19. The alert highlights the growing threat posed by wildfires, particularly during dry weather, as many people head outdoors to enjoy the sunshine and visit Scotland's national parks. And the advice to the public is clear – completely avoid the use of naked flames while the extreme wildfire alert is in place. Area Commander Joe McKay, SFRS Local Senior Officer for East and West Dunbartonshire, Argyll and Bute said: 'Responsible human behaviour can significantly lower the chance of a wildfire starting. 'Many people are out enjoying this weather and are visiting our national parks. While we don't want to spoil their fun, we are urging people to absolutely avoid the use of naked flames, including barbecues, at this time. 'It only takes one spark to start a wildfire, and things can get out of hand very, very quickly. 'Discarded cigarettes and unsupervised campfires pose a significant threat, so it's vital to follow all safety advice when outdoors and to make sure you are familiar with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code at all times.' Area Commander McKay added: 'Many rural and remote communities are hugely impacted by wildfires, which can cause significant damage. 'Livestock, farmland, wildlife, protected woodland and sites of special scientific interest can all be devastated by these fires - as can the lives of people living and working in rural communities. 'These fires can also have a hugely negative impact on the environment and the release of air polluting gases into the atmosphere.' Leigh Hamilton, Ranger Service Manager at Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority, said: 'The recent wildfires in the National Park highlight the devastating impact a single reckless act can have. 'A carelessly discarded barbecue or cigarette can destroy precious ecosystems, as well as lives and livelihoods. 'At this early stage in the season, we have also already seen an unprecedented number of bin fires and significant damage to visitor facilities including bins and picnic tables across our sites. 'As we face drier, more fire-prone conditions, we urge everyone to act responsibly. 'During high-risk periods, please avoid using any naked flames, including disposable barbecues, and ensure waste is properly disposed of. 'We also encourage anyone who witnesses a rural wildfire to immediately call 999 - never assume someone else has done so.' Chief Inspector Simon Shanks, Local Area Commander for Police Scotland said: 'As the good weather continues, we are working with our partners to encourage everyone to stay safe and behave responsibly. 'We want everyone to enjoy the local area and be safe. Please make sure you are aware of wildfire guidance and safety around open water. Take home any litter and be respectful to others at all times.' Chief Officer of Housing, Peter Barry said: 'We fully support the efforts by our partners to educate about the risks of wildfires and are ready to provide assistance where required. 'While we are enjoying the sunshine, this prolonged period of dry weather brings significant risks, and it is imperative upon every one of us to ensure we are taking all steps necessary to minimise the risk of wildfires.' Guidance will be shared and communicated across key areas of the National Park, including visitor hotspots, to help spread the message that everyone has a role to play in protecting Scotland's precious natural spaces. As warmer weather continues, the National Park Authority encourages visitors and local communities to stay vigilant, stay safe, be kind and considerate to others and avoid any activities that could put yourself, others or our beautiful landscapes at risk. The SFRS has an array of wildfire prevention and safety advice on its website.
