An enhanced police presence will be deployed in Highland Perthshire this weekend.
Local Police Scotland chief inspector Graham Binnie confirmed the move in direct response to the mass influx of people to the area last weekend, which also saw the assault of an estate worker at Loch Clunie.
Rubbish and camp fire remains were found at a number of the area’s other beauty spots including Loch Tummel, Loch Rannoch and Loch Tayside.
Dedicated patrols will prioritise the aforementioned beauty spots as well as The Hermitage and Cargill's Leap.
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Many locals were up in arms about visitors from outwith Highland Perthshire travelling to the area, breaking the government’s guidance to stay within a five-mile radius for their home.
In response to the police announcement, Perth and North Perthshire MP Pete Wishart said: “The instances of people travelling long distances to beauty spots in Highland Perthshire are deeply troubling.
“I am pleased that Police Scotland have confirmed that there will be an enhanced police presence going forward and whilst it may not solve every possible problem, I hope residents can see this is being taken very seriously.
“If we are going to exit this situation as soon as is safe to do so, we must prevent a second spike.
“A clear way to do this is for people to only visit outdoor spaces within short distances of their home.”
Perthshire North MSP John Swinney added: “I am grateful to the chief inspector and to all local officers for their recognition of the need for the public to abide by Scottish Government guidance, and for their diligence in protecting the health of the public.
“Last weekend’s scenes were unacceptable and cannot be repeated. We have all worked too hard and sacrificed too much to squander the progress we have made.
“I have spoken directly with the chief inspector, and I am pleased to confirm that there will be additional police resources in Highland Perthshire this weekend in order to deal with any potential influx.
“I thank the police for their continued efforts, and all members of the public who are continuing to adhere to the Scottish Government guidance.”
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