Public asked for their views on proposed Loch Lomond byelaw changes

dailyrecord.co.uk:

A public consultation has been launched to gather views on proposed changes to Loch Lomond byelaws – amid calls for a ban on jet skis.

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Authority say there has been a 119 percent increase in byelaw contraventions between 2019 and 2021 – almost half of which were for speeding.The proposals include the creation of areas for only low or non-powered activities, such as swimming and kayaking, as well as the compulsory wearing of flotation devices forunder-16s on vessels.They also include the introduction of a new user registration scheme, meaning anyone using a motorised vessel must be registered with the park authority in advance.If agreed, the transfer of liability for offences committed by someone under 16 in sole charge of a powered vessel would be handed to the registered owner of the vessel when there is no supervising adult.In addition, the boundary of the existing lower speed zone around Inchmoan island would be amended to be more easily identifiable for loch users.The byelaws are required by law to be reviewed at least every 10 years.The proposals follow calls by some for a blanket ban on loch jet skis, with Dumbarton MSP Jackie Baillie recently claiming many are unregistered, while blasting those who drive them while drunk and at dangerous speeds.Luss Estates Company and Luss and Arden Community Council also say a ban must be considered unless tighter rules are established and effectively enforced.Dave Pretswell, of the community council, said in June: “Irresponsible use of jet skis on Loch Lomond in areas used by open water swimmers, kayakers and paddleboarders has now reached such a point that it now presents a real threat to life and unfortunately we fear that the