VISITORS to a Scots beauty spot have been warned a major change to local bylaws will affect how they access Scotland’s largest loch.
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Authority are set to enforce new water rules TODAY following a 12-week public consultation.
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The new rules are being introduced to reduce “irresponsible behaviour” and improve water safety.
The national park has seen a surge in the numbers of people using the loch to swim, paddle board and kayak during and after the Covid-19 pandemic.
But the numbers of power boat and jet ski enthusiasts has increased too.
Anyone aged under 16 must wear life jackets or buoyancy aids when on any moving vessel – whether it has an engine or not.
This includes boats, canoes, kayaks and paddleboards.
Jet skis and power boats will also be forced to slow down in Loch Lomond.
The maximum speed limit in low-speed zones will be reduced from 11mph to just 6mph in a bid to avoid confrontations between water users.
The new 6kph slow-speed zones, marked by buoys, are now in force at Balloch Castle Country Park, Duck Bay, Manse Bay, Milarrochy Bay, Luss, Sallochy and Rowardennan.
The boundary line for the 11kph speed zones to the south of Inchtavannach, Inchmoan and Inchcruin islands has also changed.
Motorboats and Jetskis must slow down to 11kph by the time they pass through the buoys marking the boundary.
Anyone planning to use a vessel with an engine, which includes jet skis, must register in advance with the National Park Authority and at least one person on every vehicle must be registered.
It has also become an offence to damage, remove, or tamper with public rescue equipment such as life rings or throw lines.
A new rule has been added if someone under 16 takes out a vessel with an engine and breaches a bylaw, the registered owner or owner will be guilty of an offence.
The new online system, to make it easier for owners of vessels with an engine to register, will be online from January 2025.
Kenny Auld, Head of Visitor Services at Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority said: “The new Loch Lomond Bylaws 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.”
