Police issue stay at home warning after large numbers gathered at popular outdoor spots

Police have warned people to follow rules and stay at home, after large numbers of people gathered at Portobello and the Pentland hills.

Edinburgh police chief issues warning after large numbers gather over weekend

Police chiefs have urged people to follow current regulations, after reports of people gathering in Portobello and the Pentland hills regional park over the weekend.

The Edinburgh Police division posted on Facebook this afternoon that large numbers of vehicles were parked and people gathered in the popular areas.

Officers patrolled near the ski slopes at Pentlands around 3pm this afternoon.

Chief Inspector Scott Richardson of Edinburgh City Division, said:

"While I appreciate people want to make the most of exercising outdoors, I ask that courtesy and respect is shown for the area and its residents. Please be mindful about road access and park responsibly and safely to ensure a clear route is available at all times.

"I fully recognise the impact the restrictions are having on people’s lives. However, it is clear that significant sacrifices are vital to help suppress the spread of coronavirus.

"The Chief Constable has made it clear that our approach throughout the pandemic has not changed. Police Scotland officers will continue to support people to follow the regulations and encourage them to take personal responsibility.

"People should not leave their homes unless for essential purposes and the best way to stay safe is to stay at home.

"We have been carrying out patrols in affected areas to monitor parking, explain the regulations and to encourage people to do the right thing. Where officers encounter wilful breaches they will act decisively to enforce the law."

Frustrated locals responded to the post with comments about the areas being ‘packed’.

One stated: “The 702 is carnage just now, cars taking up the entire pavement at Flotterstone, bus stops full of cars along the route, parking up to the Mauricewood roundabout& Hillend is bad too, todays worst it’s been.”

Another said: “I live in the middle of Portobello. It’s getting busier and busier...around the bottom of Figgate Lane (where Crumbs, The Little Chartroom and soon to open Pizza place are situated) it’s packed. People are travelling from all over town to come. It’s like Princes Street on busy Saturday.”

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