In line with partners at Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS), which has closed all of its car parks, from today (24-04-2020) car parks and unauthorised stopping places near Finnich Glen (Devil’s Pulpit) and Dumyat will be closed to prevent non-essential travel.
FLS car parks at Pendreich (Black Hill and White Hill Forests) have been closed since the end of March.
The car park at Blair Logie, off the A91 that serves Dumyat, has also been closed.
The message is clear
Cllr Jim Thomson, convener for Environment and Housing, explained: “These popular beauty spots across Stirling have seen an increase in visitors over the week because of the warm weather.
“That’s set to continue on Saturday and, while I know that makes people want to get out and about more, the message from the government is still clear – don’t travel unless it’s essential.
“I completely appreciate the frustration of having to stay local, and the benefits of getting some fresh country air are obviously understood, but we have to continue to look out for each other and avoid taking the car out for a drive and a walk at some of these cherished locations.”
Stirling Council has taken the additional step to place cones and taping at a section of Sheriffmuir Road.
The steps come after the Scottish Government reinforced its travel rules earlier this week, underlining the enforcement powers, such as fines and dispersal orders, handed down to Police Scotland.
The exceptions have been outlined
Vice convener, Cllr Danny Gibson added: “The message is clear and it’s for everyone’s safety – stay at home unless it’s absolutely necessary.
“The exceptions to this have been outlined, repeatedly, and getting in the car to drive to rural locations anywhere in Scotland for a walk in the country is not one of them.
“Unfortunately people are still ignoring this so we’ve had no choice but to take these measures.”
This is a collective effort
Chief Inspector Gill Marshall, Police Scotland Local Area Commander for Stirling, said: “We remain in a period of physical distancing in order to prevent the spread of Coronavirus, protect our NHS and save lives.
"The restrictions in place are for everyone's safety and it is irresponsible to ignore them.
“With that in mind, we want the public to adhere to the current guidance and not to visit any beauty spot or popular gathering areas.
“We understand and appreciate the sacrifices everyone is making at this time and while leaving the house for essential shopping and medicine is permitted, along with daily exercise, these activities should be done within your local area. Where possible, driving should be kept to a minimum.”
Closures in line with Gov requirements
Simon Hodgson, FLS Chief Executive, said: “We have closed our car parks, mountain bike trails and all visitor facilities in line with government requirements for us all to avoid unnecessary travel to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
“We appreciate that fresh air and being outdoors benefits physical and mental health and well-being and local forest trails are open for local visitors who can get to one of our forests by walking, by bicycle or by wheelchair - as long as physical distance guidelines are followed.
“I would urge everyone to follow the current government and NHS health advice.”