A local police officer has praised the T in the Park music festival as bringing “vibrancy” to the area.
The area set aside for the event at Balado, Kinross-shire, is similar to a small town and Sergeant Sandra Williams told The Courier it creates a “feel good factor.”
This year’s T in the Park marks its 20th anniversary and will take place from July 12-14. It will feature top acts including Rihanna, Kraftwerk, Mumford & Sons and Emeli Sande.
Sgt Williams explained the impact of the massive music extravaganza has on the local community.
“I have been involved as a point of contact for the local community since 2010 and enjoy every minute of T in the Park,” she said.
“It brings vibrancy to the local area and creates a real feel good factor.
“Things have not always run smoothly, however, and many people remember the deluge of rain in 2007 which caused traffic chaos on the roads leading to the event, including the M90 and A9, which had a major impact on the local minor roads.”
She continued: “My predecessor Sergeant David Rankine had the difficult job to do in 2008 to try to provide reassurance to the local community that systems had been put in place to prevent a reoccurrence.
“Improvements have been made since then, including traffic management, better drainage and more stewarding.
“The fact that last year was one of the most challenging years weather-wise, with high winds and rain and the event took place with no significant impact on the local community pays testament to the hard work carried out by DF Concerts with Perth and Kinross Council and the emergency services.”
Sgt Williams said a local forum meets before the event to look at potential problems.
“The main problems raised by the community relate to inconsiderate parking by festival-goers, who have a tendency to park their cars in local streets during the weekend,” she added.
“This can make it difficult for local residents to get in and out of their driveways.
“In the past we have placed ‘No Waiting’ cones in some areas which have been worst affected but unfortunately, with little impact.
“We will, therefore, not be placing as many cones out this year and if anyone has any real difficulty they should contact the police for assistance.”
Sgt Williams will be on hand to provide information and advice, along with her colleagues Constables Sadie Allan and Victoria Riches.
Local people with concerns or complaints regarding T in the Park can contact the residents’ hotline on 01577 898 091. This number will be open 24 hours a day throughout the event.
Anyone with queries regarding local policing in Kinross can contact Sgt Williams and her team on 101 or at sandra.williams@scotland.police.uk.