Day-trippers have again been warned to stay away from Stirling’s rural beauty spots after reports of increased numbers of visitors.

Bosses from the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, the region’s MP and MSP and local councillors have pleaded with the public to avoid areas of natural beauty after First Minister Nicola Sturgeon eased restrictions on daily exercise.

Previously, everyone was permitted to exercise for one hour per day. However, that has now been lifted and people can take part in unlimited exercise whilst still adhering to social distancing.

But since the changes rural areas have seen an influx of visitors, including to Callander, Balmaha and Mugdock Country Park.

One Stirling councillor has said it’s time that coronavirus lockdown restrictions were lifted even further.

Forth and Endrick independent councillor Robert Davies says that there has to be some return to normality after seven weeks of lockdown.

Councillor Davies said: “One report suggests that traffic is up about 20 per cent on a few weeks ago.

“People are parking on the roadside because of the car park closures. I think now it is time to consider a gradual reopening of the car parks to allow people to walk and exercise their dogs.

“People have demonstrated they can respect social distancing in supermarkets and there is every reason to believe they will behave sensibly in our open spaces.”

However, National Park Authority chief executive, Gordon Watson, pleaded for people to follow government advice to exercise locally and not to travel.

He said: “Getting outside into fresh air for exercise has huge benefits for both our physical and mental wellbeing. That’s even more important for people at this difficult time, so we know that the small change to Scottish Government rules to allow people to exercise outside more often close to home will make a big difference to many.

“However, the advice on non-essential travel has not changed and outdoor exercise must continue to only be carried out close to home.

“This means that people should still not be travelling to the National Park unnecessarily for day trips or outdoor activities at this time. Visitor facilities including car parks, toilets and campsites remain closed. This also applies to people considering travelling to Scotland from England who would still need to abide by current Scottish restrictions.

“We urge everyone to follow the Scottish Government’s guidance to stay at home, stay local for exercise and reduce the risk of spreading Covid-19 to other communities and areas.”

Bruce Crawford MSP said: “I’ve been concerned by the number of reports I’ve been getting regarding people visiting rural parts of the Stirling constituency in recent days. People are now able to exercise outdoors as much as they like, but this must be done sensibly. You should do so either by yourself or only with members of the household you live in – and you should only do so within the vicinity of your own home.

“Travelling by car to a rural location for a walk or a cycle is clearly not in keeping with the guidance. This puts additional pressure on services, infrastructure and local people in rural communities who themselves are doing their best to practice social distancing.”

Councillor Neil Benny, leader of the Scottish Conservative group on Stirling Council said: “Being able to get out to exercise more is welcome but people must stay local while doing that. It’s important that our popular visitor spots are not overwhelmed, so people should continue to stay away and we will be happy to welcome them back in the future.”

Councillor Danny Gibson, leader of the Labour group on Stirling Council said: “I know it’s tough and I know it’s tempting to venture further, but beauty spots are kept beautiful by workers who cut the grass, staff the car parks and a whole host of other valuable people who do a remarkable job – they deserve a safe working environment and we have a moral obligation to keep all families safe, not just our own.

“This is a difficult time for all of us, but right now the advice is stay home, protect the NHS, save lives.”

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