NatureScot considers overnight parking ban at Loch Leven amid 'unsustainable camping levels'

NatureScot is considering closing a car park at Loch Leven overnight during peak season to tackle issues with overnight camping.

It is one of many options being looked at to deal with growing issues at the Burleigh Sands car park, near Kinross.

Loch Leven is not just a nature reserve but a Site of Special Scientific Interest, a Special Protected Area and a Ramsar site.

Scotland’s nature agency NatureScot is looking at ways to protect the area from the “unsustainable levels of campervan and car camping taking place at the Burleigh Sands car park”.

A NatureScot spokesperson said: “Loch Leven National Nature Reserve (NNR) is first and foremost a nature reserve and our emphasis is on protecting wildlife while welcoming responsible visitor access.

“Unfortunately, in recent years there have been unsustainable levels of campervan and car camping taking place at the Burleigh Sands car park, with associated issues including toileting, litter, fires and damage to vegetation. This level of damage and disturbance has had a negative impact on the reserve, its wildlife, and the enjoyment of other visitors.

“We are currently considering how we can try and reduce these issues. Partial closure of the car park overnight during the peak season and/or installation of a height barrier or gate are among potential options, but it’s important to stress no decision has yet been taken. We will be discussing options further before reaching a decision and will advise the public of any changes as soon as we can.”

Kinross-shire ward councillor Willie Robertson hopes to hold a meeting with the relevant parties later this month to see what can be done to tackle the problem. The introduction of by-laws is one option.

The Liberal Democrat councillor said: “There are serious issues as a result of wild camping on the shores of Loch Leven. One of the Nature Scot wardens described it as like the ‘wild west’. People doing as they wish camping anywhere and leaving litter and human waste when they leave.

“I am in the process of setting up a multi agency meeting involving the police, council officers, NatureScot wardens and my fellow ward councillors to see if we can put together a plan to deal with this problem. The police have suggested the introduction of by-laws that would empower them to deal with situations they are unable to deal with currently. I hope to hold this meeting before the end of the month.”