Plea to 'stay local' after parked cars cause danger in Glenmore
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
People from outwith the area are being asked to avoid Glenmore after claims that rows of parked cars have been causing a danger to people.
Forestry and Land Scotland’s Glenmore team said 'log-jams' had been created along the road from Aviemore as inappropriately parked cars increased the levels of risk for visitors, local people and FLS staff.
With mid-term approaching and the recent snowfalls making people keener than ever to get out and about for some exercise, FLS's Glenmore team is reminding people that they should stay local and not travel far.
The call comes as skiers and snow-boarders flock to the slopes in the area, even though the official ski areas are closed.
FLS regional visitor services manager Paul Hibberd said: “We’re all for people getting outdoors for some exercise and physically distanced fun but everyone should remember to stay local and follow Scottish Government essential travel guidelines.
“However, despite the fact that local businesses and facilities in the Glenmore area still closed under the current Covid-19 restrictions, we’ve seen hundreds of people descend on the area over the past week.
“The roads around Glenmore have been crammed with cars, with many people parking in inappropriate and potentially dangerous places.
“This is putting pedestrians at risk and it’s potentially putting drivers at risk – and it could also place additional burdens on the emergency services, should they need to access the area to help anyone who gets into trouble.”
FLS said that some drivers had been parking on a new pathway – put in at a cost of £250,000 – forcing pedestrians onto the road, while others had been parking on roads not yet cleared of compacted snow.
Mr Hibberd added: “People are still welcome to visit one of our forests for exercise and fresh air – but this should not be at the potential expense of anyone’s safety.
“Stay local, be considerate, follow the Covid-19 guidelines and always have a ‘plan B’ destination in case your first choice is too busy for you to safely park when you arrive. Visit our website to find a forest near you.
“With the mountain road closed, there is extra pressure on parking space in the glen and our ability to keep all car parks clear of snow is limited at the moment.
“Whichever forest you visit, do take some extra care in the icy conditions.”
