By Democrat reporter
Local motorists are unhappy to have received late notification that four miles of the A82 Loch Lomondside road will be closed “for weeks”.
This work will be carried out under phased overnight lane closures on the A82 north and southbound carriageway.
And the unsatisfactory note which lacks detail has even led to speculation that the Scottish Government is undertaking this work in the run-up to planning permission being granted to the Flamingo Land project at Balloch.
One local resident said the notice was “unsettling” and asked — “Could this mean councils and government could feel further obliged to this deranged developer being more out of pocket for not listening to the word No ?”
Another added: “If this started last night there was nothing phased about it! The whole dual carriageway from Barloan to Balloch. The grass was also getting cut which might have been [the reason for] last night’s closure.”
Carole Garvey told social media: “Can’t find anything on road closures regarding this that gives reason for investigation only that it’s happening.”
Mark Mcconnachie added: “As it’s overnight shouldn’t be a problem, I’m sure there would be plenty complaining if it was through the day. The work has to be done to make sure road is safe.”
Rebecca Devine commented: “So it [Flamingo Land] must be going ahead then?”
Eric Mcmillan quipped: “Just in time for summer traffic, typical.”
One group who are organising themselves to cope with the influx of visitors to Loch Lomond are the local police.
A spokesman said: “Our officers have been out working in collaboration with the park rangers on Loch Lomond. We understand that at this time of year the Loch becomes very busy.“Unfortunately, this always results in an increase in anti social behaviour with many people complaining about the use of jet skis on the Loch.
“There are speed restrictions on the Loch which are there to keep people safe and let everyone use the Loch in a responsible way.
“Police Scotland will continue to work with the National Park and the local Council to enforce the bye laws in and around Loch Lomond.
“It’s not about stopping people having fun, its about making sure the National Park is a place where everyone can enjoy themselves without ruining someone else’s day.”
Derek Ward pointed out: “What can also be a danger are the large displacement cruisers that can create a huge wash/wake. These can easily overturn or swamp paddle boards/canoes/small boats. Unfortunately, the drivers either seem oblivious or are just ignorant/arrogant and don’t care.”
Elspeth asked: “Will the police be around at the weekend when most of the jetskiers are breaking the speed limit rules within markers and in no wake zones, or have they only gone today when it’s blowing a gale and its likely not very busy on the water?”
Andy Carson took this opportunity to ask: “what happened to the jet ski consultation by the park authority? Did anyone see the result of the consultation?”
Karen Cavana said: “Yeh the chavs come out of town to cause havoc. I hate those things and so noisy as well.”
Lizzie Anderson agreed: “About time, should be a unit stationed at Duck Bay, which is always the worst area for idiots.”
Preventions and Community Policing Teams are working in partnership with VIN CHIP to identify caravan, motorhome and trailer theft.
Using long-range RFID technology, Police scanners can target these types of property from a distance and identify if they are stolen.
VIN CHIP have a number of products available to protect your property. https://orlo.uk/TKApi
Other Police approved companies offer security products and can be found on our Secure By Design website here https://orlo.uk/4jp9Q
Caravans and motor homes are a new century holidaying attraction.
Duncan Beaton suggested it would a lot simpler if caravans and trailers, including HGV trailers, had their own number plate and log book through DVLA.
Spain has a red plate for all the trailers and Caravans over 750 kilos and also the insurance is separate from the towing vehicle.
And another word to the wise from Mark Farmer: “People need to realise when buying a caravan you to receive documents with it. And can check themselves if it’s stolen, hpi etc… online.
“Called CRIS REGISTRATION it’s pretty standard. Now it’s not a legal requirement for caravans to be registered to this site, but vast majority of dealerships when selling a caravan do registered it with them so 9/10 it will be on that site.”
A police spokesperson said: “As the good weather returns, we are expecting increased numbers of visitors to Balloch and the South end of Loch Lomond. Please enjoy yourselves safely, the water remains very cold and dangerous.
“Remember, there is nowhere in the area that you can consume alcohol in a public place, police and partners will be patrolling the area enforcing the by-laws. Anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated, please enjoy the area safely and responsibly.”
Darren Webster’s wish for the police was this: “And most of all we hope our officers are appreciated and respected.
“Maybe even give them a cold drink so they can enjoy the weather at work.”
Democrat reporter