| The less than 'Bonny' Banks? |
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With concern rising over the litter and damage being inflicted at informal camping spots, particularly on the Eastern shore of Loch Lomond, the Friends are talking to the National Park Authority and others about how they can help. "We see this as one of the most vital challenges for this part of the National Park" Said Simon Lewis, Director of the Friends, recently. "Loch Lomond is known worldwide as a most precious part of Scotland's natural and cultural heritage. Everyone who knows and loves the loch would like to think they could sit quietly by the Eastern shore as the late summer sun sets in the West, with only the sound of the waters of the loch lapping on the shingle. The reality has been rather different through large parts of this summer.... Large rowdy camping parties have been a regular occurance, with trees and branches torn down for bonfires, anti social behaviour fuelled by alcohol and then tents abandoned amongst piles of litter for someone other than the campers to clear up. As part of a National Park, Loch Lomond deserves better - the shores of the loch should be one of the best protected parts of the country for the quiet enjoyment of many, rather than the destructive pleasure of a few". Providing decent, managed facilities for camping, with WCs etc, is one approach that the Friends of Loch Lomond & the Trossachs is discussing with the National Park Authority, but what do you think? As part of our work on the issue we want to sample as many views as possible from those who care about Loch Lomond. We will shortly be running a questionnaire on this site to collect your views - so, watch this space!
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