A number of byelaws have come into force in a bid to improve public safety and reduce irresponsible behavior on Loch Lomond.
The byelaws, which manage safe and responsible use of the loch, were recently reviewed by Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Authority and a 12-week public consultation was held on proposed changes.
They have now been introduced from today, Friday November 1, and the key changes being enforced include making it law that under 16s must wear life jackets or buoyancy aids when on any moving vessel.
The law includes any vessel on the water whether it has an engine or not, with boats, canoes, kayaks and paddleboards all included.
People must also register in advance with the National Park Authority if they intend to be in charge of a vessel with an engine and there must be one registered user on board at all times.
New slow-speed zones are also in force with 6kph in place at Balloch Castle Country Park, Duck Bay, Manse Bay, Milarrochy Bay, Luss, Sallochy and Rowardennan. The speed is equivalent to a slow walking pace and the areas are marked with buoys.
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It is also now an offence to damage, remove or tamper with public rescue equipment while the registered owner of an engined vehicle will be guilty of an offence if someone under 16 takes it out.
A new registration system is also being introduced to make it easier for owners to register vessels with an engine. They will now be able to do that online, with the system coming in early next year. It will also be used to register people who intend to be in charge of a vessel that isn’t registered to them.
In the meantime, owners who are already registered with the National Park Authority do not need to take any action.
Kenny Auld, Head of Visitor Services at Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority said: “The new Loch Lomond Byelaws are an important tool for promoting public safety and responsible enjoyment of Loch Lomond, which is used by a range of different groups, from wild swimmers and water sports enthusiasts to anglers and local businesses.
“Our Ranger Team patrols Loch Lomond on a daily basis and while the vast majority of engagement with loch users is positive, it is also important to have an effective deterrent to irresponsible behaviour.
“There have been increased concerns about disturbance, antisocial behaviour and safety risks on Loch Lomond in recent years and the changes coming into force today are aimed at addressing those concerns so that Loch Lomond can be enjoyed safely by the thousands of people who spend time here every year.”
National Park Rangers have already been engaging with visitors and loch users recently to increase awareness of the new byelaws and help them understand what they need to do to comply with them.
The Loch Lomond Byelaws were introduced in 1996 and are required by law to be reviewed at least every 10 years. The changes coming into force today were developed following a thorough and inclusive review process, involving consultation with local stakeholders, the wider public and legal counsel.
The new set of Loch Lomond Byelaws can be viewed on the National Park Authority website.
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