Road closures across Stirling and the National Park have come into force this weekend to protect communities after a surge in visitors despite coronavirus.

With the easing of lockdown restriction last weekend a number of Scots beauty spots reported a large influx of people who travelled from outside the local area.

Now Police Scotland and Stirling Council have closed roads to deter day-trippers flouting the five mile recreational travel limit.

Issues around illegal parking, traffic congestion, dangerous driving and littering at various rural hot spots were all reported to Stirling Council, Police Scotland and the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park.

The local council confirmed a 21-day temporary road closures allowing local access only will now be in force at Drymen on the B837 (to prevent access to Balmaha) and Bracklinn Road, Callander near Bracklinn Falls.

Signs will be in place and the new arrangements will be enforced by Police Scotland.

Traffic Scotland has also implemented temporary speed restrictions on the A84/A85 Stirling to Crianlarich Trunk Road at the Cabin, Loch Lubnaig.

Councillor Jim Thomson, convener for the Environment and Housing Committee said: “These are tough but necessary measures to protect our communities.

“The message from the Scottish Government came loud and clear last week – don’t flock to rural beauty spots – but people made their own decision to ignore this advice.

Jade said the drivers were risking lives

“Those actions impacted our communities and left some people scared to leave their homes. That is unacceptable and we have worked with our partners to put in place robust measures to protect public safety.”

Cllr Danny Gibson, vice convener said: “Last week we saw people abandoning their cars, leaving rubbish behind, toileting in residents’ gardens and generally showing a complete disregard for public health and national guidance.

“Aside from that, the congregation of large numbers of people ignoring social distancing like we saw and was reported to us in Balmaha last weekend creates a huge risk of spreading Coronavirus.

“We have to remember that lockdown is not over, and every action we take could still have an impact on other people.

“Stirling Council will be delighted to welcome back visitors when it’s safe to do so, but now is not the time, and our message is clear – if you don’t live here, please don’t travel here for recreation.”

The following Council Car Parks will also remain closed, with enforcement staff on patrol:

  • Callander Station Rd Car Park
  • Callander Meadows Car Park
  • Callander Bracklinn Falls Car Park
  • Balmaha Car Park
  • Queens View Car Park, Strathblane
  • Finnich Glen (Devils Pulpit)
  • Blair Logie car park
  • Dumyat, Sheriffmuir Rd
  • Plean Country Park car park