Edinburgh police patrol Pentland Hills for bad parking and Covid breaches

Edinburgh police are stepping up patrols at the Pentlands, after visitors continued to flock to the area during lockdown.

The cops warning comes after residents complained that 'hundreds' of cars were parking near the beauty spot despite level four shutdown.

Police say they will not hesitate to enforce the law with rule breakers.

Pictures obtained by Edinburgh Live last month showed hundreds of parked cars clogging up the Balerno area.

Despite warnings from Nicola Sturgeon about essential travel, droves of residents continued to travel to visit the Pentland Hills.

Police are now adding extra patrols to the area following "issues around irresponsible parking".

Inspector Jim Robertson, of the Lothians and Scottish Borders Division, said: "We are aware of a number of vehicles being parked in Midlothian near to the Pentland Hills and Gladhouse Reservoir over the last few weekends.

"While I appreciate people want to make the most of exercising outdoors, I ask that courtesy and respect is shown for the area and its residents. Please be mindful about road access, especially for large emergency service vehicles, and park legally and safely to ensure a clear route is available at all times.

"I fully recognise the impact the restrictions are having on people’s lives. However, it is clear that significant sacrifices are vital to help suppress the spread of coronavirus.

"The Chief Constable has made it clear that our approach throughout the pandemic has not changed. Police Scotland officers will continue to support people to follow the regulations and encourage them to take personal responsibility.

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Dashcam footage shows cars as far as the eye can see (Andrew John Gallacher)

"People should not leave their homes unless for essential purposes and the best way to stay safe is to stay at home.

"We will have increased patrols in the area to monitor parking, explain the regulations and to encourage people to do the right thing. Where officers encounter wilful breaches they will act decisively to enforce the law."