CHANGES to Loch Lomond’s byelaws aiming to address growing concerns of “irresponsible behaviour” on the loch’s waters have come into force.
The bylawes were recently reviewed by Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Authority, with a 12-week public consultation held on the proposed changes, which aims to improve public safety.
As of Friday, there are multiple changes which include the enforcement of under-16s wearing a life jacket or buoyancy aids when on any moving vessel, including boats, canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards.
Vessels with an engine, including jet skis, will also need to register in advance with the National Park Authority.
New 6kph “slow-speed zones” are also being introduced at Balloch Castle Country Park, Duck Bay, Manse Bay, Milarrochy Bay, Luss, Sallochy and Rowardennan, which will will be marked by buoys.
According to the local authority, national park rangers have already been engaging with visitors and loch users to help increase awareness of the new bylawes and help people understand what they need to do to comply.
Kenny Auld, head of Visitor Services at Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority, said there had been increased concerns around antisocial behaviour and safety risks on the loch and hopes the new changes will address them.
He said: “The new Loch Lomond Byelaws are an important tool for promoting public safety and responsible enjoyment of Loch Lomond, which is used by a range of different groups, from wild swimmers and water sports enthusiasts to anglers and local businesses.
“Our Ranger Team patrols Loch Lomond on a daily basis and while the vast majority of engagement with loch users is positive, it is also important to have an effective deterrent to irresponsible behaviour.
“There have been increased concerns about disturbance, antisocial behaviour and safety risks on Loch Lomond in recent years and the changes coming into force today are aimed at addressing those concerns so that Loch Lomond can be enjoyed safely by the thousands of people who spend time here every year.”
Along with the other changes it is now an offence to damage, remove or tamper with public rescue equipment such as emergency rescue life rings or throw lines.
The boundary line marking the 11kph speed zones to the south of Inchtavannach, Inchmoan and Inchcruin islands has also changed with users now needing to slow down to 11kph by the time they pass through the buoys marking the boundary.
A new online registration system is also being introduced to make it easier for owners to register vessels with an engine.
The changes coming into force on Friday were developed following a “thorough and inclusive” review process, which involved consultation with local stakeholders, the wider public and legal counsel.
The new set of Loch Lomond Byelaws can be viewed on the National Park Authority website here.
