Steps are being taken to secure the safety of visitors to a Perthshire beauty spot which has had a spike in visitors during lockdown.
Wild campers, drinkers and daytrippers have become a common sight at Loch Clunie, near Blarigowrie and local residents are working with a range of forces to maintain safety at the site.
Problems came to a head at the first easing of lockdown restrictions when a 57-year-old man was allegedly stabbed at the loch.
Following the incident, a meeting held by residents identified a string of steps they would like to see taken.
These included introducing basic signage around the loch, including signs with phone numbers for people to report unacceptable behaviour.
Residents are also looking to campaign for a total ban on overnight camping in the area, and Perth and Kinross Council is being asked to consider introducing a bylaw to stop people drinking at the loch-side. Similar measures are being considered for Loch Rannoch.
The idea of installing crash barriers to block off parts of the road currently used by overnight visitors is also being explored.
Strathtay ward councillor Grant Laing, who chaired the meeting, said he has already been in contact with community safety officers in the council.
He said: “We’re looking to supplement the police patrols and we’re engaging with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service after an increase in campfires being lit.
“Police have stepped up their patrols and we’re speaking with the council’s roads team too. There could also be a role to play for wildlife protection officers which we’re looking into.
“Nobody wants to ban everybody, we just want to make the loch more pleasant for everyone.
“It’s a site of special scientific interest and we want to see it treated as one. I’d like all residents who see people breaking the guidance to report it by calling police on 101.”
More discussions will be held over the coming months, Mr Laing said.
Residents said the problem wasn’t the influx of people at the loch – which is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest – but the mess that was left behind.
