Loch Lomond visitors warned to expect queues due to changes

Those looking to make a splash at Loch Lomond this weekend are being warned to expect queues.

Duncan Mills Memorial Slipway in Balloch will reopen on Saturday morning.

Staff at Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority have been working to prepare the site for launching and retrieval for the first time since the beginning of the coronavirus lockdown.

In light of the Scottish Government’s Covid-19 guidelines, new procedures have been put in place to allow the slipway to be used safely in accordance with physical distancing.

There will be a staggered queuing system to launch water crafts.

To maximise the space available to slipway users, cars not towing boats/trailers will be asked to park elsewhere.

The site will open at 8.30am and the gate will close at 9pm, although loch users will still be able to exit after this by following on-site guidance.

No changing or shower facilities will be available, although toilets will be open with Covid-safe controls.

Visitors will be asked to wear face coverings, especially when using the pontoon where physical distancing will be more difficult.

Simon Jones, director of conservation and visitor operations, said: “We have a responsibility to manage the site safely and this is our number one priority, for loch users, for staff and for other visitors, businesses and local community nearby.

“The slipway is one of our most complex sites to operate given the volume and range of people using it, and the constraints of space both on and off the water when launching and retrieving crafts.

“We have been working hard to put measures in place to ensure that the slipway can operate safely. We now look forward to welcoming slipway users back to Loch Lomond.

“We know a lot of people have been looking forward to getting back out on the loch. We now ask that they remain patient for just a little while longer when using the facility as it will not be operating as usual.

“Due to physical distancing requirements, launching and retrieving crafts is likely to take longer and we expect there to be queues.

“Please respect the new processes in place, as well as each other when waiting to use the slipway. Rangers will be on hand to guide users through the new procedures but please bear with us and be considerate as we help you to enjoy Loch Lomond safely and responsibly.”

A checklist, including information on documentation registration, has been created to help loch users prepare ahead of their visit.

For more information, click here.