Proposals to create four managed camping zones around one of Scotland's national parks have been given the green light.
The board of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority unanimously approved comprehensive plans to protect the Park's unique environment following an extensive public consultation, which received more than 300 responses
The core element of the proposals include the creation of four 'byelaw zones' covering 3.7per cent of the Park's total area, where camping would only be allowed by permit and would be completely banned during some periods of the year to allow the ground to recover. Around 300 camping places will also be created.
Park authorities and local groups have become increasingly alarmed at the amount of litter left by campers and the scale of the damage done each year to beauty spots.
It is proposed that this will see the creation of 300 camping places, through a mixture of camping permits and low-cost campsites, in the first year in which the new byelaws would be operating. This is in addition to a continued focus on education around responsible camping and promotion of the access and recreation opportunities throughout the Park.
Linda McKay, convener of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority board, said: "The Board was unanimous in its decision.
"Conscious of our responsibility to promote access and recreation in the Park, the Board has sought to take a proportionate approach; introducing a range of measures designed to protect the special characteristics of this designated area of Scotland, while also striving to enhance provision for those who will continue to want to camp. We hope these new proposals show just how far we have travelled from the original position.
"Our proposals build on the success of wide-ranging measures introduced at east Loch Lomond and if we are successful in seeking Scottish Government approval for these new steps, we feel absolutely confident we can provide an outstanding National Park experience for all."
The plans were developed following increasing evidence that the Park is being severely degraded by the relentless pressure from high volumes of campers repeatedly visiting the same popular areas giving these fragile areas no time to recover.
Further damage has been caused by the irresponsible behaviour of some visitors, including littering, lochshores being used as a toilet, trees being cut down for firewood, abandonment of entire campsites and summer-long unauthorised caravan encampments in laybys.
Iain Rennick, Scottish Natural Heritage area manager, said: "We've been working closely with the Park Authority as their proposals have developed. Together, we're keen to protect the interests and rights of those who wish to exercise responsible access in the Park as well as those who live and work there.
"We agree that a new approach is needed in tackling some of the visitor management issues in the Park, and that this needs to involve a mix of existing and new measures. We particularly welcome the intention to invest in new camping facilities, as this will ensure that the high demand at peak periods is catered for and a better overall visitor experience is provided."
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