There will be three different tiers in Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park when new levels of Covid protection take effect this evening.
The park, which covers an area of 720 square miles, crosses over four different council areas and two of these, covering a significant area of it, will move to level four of protection measures.
West Dunbartonshire and Stirling councils move to the top level of restrictions, while Argyll & Bute remains at level two and Perth &Kinross Council stays at level three.
Park officials have warned all residents and visitors that the new travel restrictions have been put into law, meaning people who live in level three or four areas cannot travel outside their local authority except for an essential purpose – such as work or caring responsibilities.
Park authority chief executive Gordon Watson said: “I know many people will be disheartened that so much of the national park is moving into the highest protection level but I would ask everyone to play their part by adhering to these measures, especially around travelling to different areas so that we can minimise the further spread of the virus.
“It’s particularly important that people are aware that there are different local authority areas within the national park so the levels are not the same everywhere and that the travel guidance will now become law.”
He said that since West Dunbartonshire is in level four the Duncan Mills Memorial Slipway in Balloch will close from Friday for three weeks, while hospitality businesses and visitor attractions will be also closed in level four areas.
“For those in lower level areas of the national park who are still able to get out and enjoy certain areas, please plan and check your travel in advance and be aware that even in some lower level areas many facilities such as public toilets have moved to winter opening hours,” he added.
Employ the matrix to work out what level can visit what area and if toilets are available when you arrive! Easy as pie!