Responsible access initiative in Deeside this summer

Joint patrols will take place at weekends at Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve (NNR), Cambus O’ May and Mar Lodge Estate this July and August.

The aim will be to engage with visitors and campers, share information and advice on responsible access under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and tackle any instances of anti-social behaviour.

The patrols are a joint initiative between NatureScot, Police Scotland, Cairngorms National Park Authority, National Trust for Scotland (NTS) and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS).

NatureScot’s Muir of Dinnet NNR Reserve Manager Simon Ritchie said: “The vast majority of visitors to Muir of Dinnet are very responsible and it’s been wonderful to see so many people out and about enjoying the reserve this summer.

“Unfortunately, we have had a few instances of unacceptable behaviour over the past few months, including anti-social and aggressive campers, inappropriate fires and barbecues, and littering. This has a negative impact not only on the wildlife and habitats the reserve strives to protect, but also on other visitors and local communities.  

“These joint patrols are a great initiative that will help to promote responsible behaviour and tackle any issues where they arise. We’re very grateful to the police and our partners for their support.”

Constable Ann Ashman said: "Spending time outdoors is something we all value, but it's important that people treat these places with care and consideration.

"We've experienced problems in Deeside in recent months including fires being set despite a high fire risk warning being in place, vehicles parked dangerously when carparks are full, damage, littering and wildlife offences. These actions have a negative impact on the environment, local communities, other visitors, and wildlife.

"Our officers will be working alongside partners throughout the summer to encourage responsible behaviour - and anyone engaging in anti-social or unlawful activity can expect a robust response."

Colin Simpson, Head of Visitor Services and Active Travel at the Cairngorms National Park Authority, said: “This summer, more than 100 rangers - made up of the Park Authority’s permanent, seasonal and volunteer rangers, as well as staff from partner services - will be working all over the National Park and we welcome the additional support from Police Scotland as we enter this busy time of year.

“A key part of a ranger’s role is to help people connect with nature and explore the National Park responsibly, through the positive promotion of the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. The additional presence on the ground in Deeside will allow rangers to engage with even more visitors during July and August, helping to welcome, guide and support visitors and ensure everyone can enjoy the summer months in the Cairngorms National Park.”

David Frew, the National Trust for Scotland’s Head of Mar Lodge Estate, said: “Our purpose is to share our places with people, and last year we welcomed more visitors than ever before. However, our team does face many challenges due to this increase, and we are working hard to engage with visitors to explain how their actions can impact our fragile habitats.

“Mar Lodge Estate covers 29,000 hectares, including 15 Munros, so we’re glad to have the support of our partners to supplement the work of our own rangers and volunteers and encourage responsible visiting to this amazing part of the country.”

ENDS