Loch go-slow zone is widened

Published on Friday 16 March 2007 01:05

SPEED restrictions on Loch Lomond have been extended as part of a raft of by-laws announced yesterday to improve safety on the water.

Sarah Boyack, the deputy environment minister, launched a plan, detailing for the first time the management of the national park area. The five-year plan includes measures to protect species such as the black grouse, promote sustainability projects and encourage deprived communities to enjoy the park.

Following the deaths of a father and daughter on the loch in 2005, Ms Boyack also announced revised by-laws to improve safety, including raising the age at which people are allowed to drive high-powered craft from 14 to 16 and making life-jackets compulsory in all water vehicles.

From May, the area covered by an 11kph (6.8mph) speed limit will increase by 8 per cent to 30 per cent around the islands and the eastern shore.

This effectively creates a go-slow buffer zone. But water-skiers argue it prevents them practising their sport in the lee of the islands, forcing them into more dangerous waters.

Tourist-boat owners say it will take them too long to get out to the islands at such speeds, but Ronnie Picken, president of the Scottish Anglers National Association, said the new laws did not go far enough.

"It is only a matter of time before they have a fatality on the loch," Mr Picken said.

Rangers will have increased powers to report speeding water users or vandals directly to the procurator-fiscal. By cutting out the need to go through police, they hope to improve their response to antisocial behaviour.

Tim Edwards, the director of visitor and operational services at the park, said the changes were designed to make the park a "multi-recreational area" where all groups could enjoy the peace and quiet, as well as water sports.