MEMBERS of the public have been urged not to visit the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park over the Easter holiday weekend.

The plea comes from the park authority's chief executive, Gordon Watson, who acknowledges the idea of visiting the area is "incredibly tempting".

But Mr Watson says people should continue to obey the government's instructions by only exercising in areas local to their homes.

The plea comes after Argyll and Bute Council announced the closure of its car parks in three of the most popular areas within the national park's boundaries.

The council announced on Wednesday that its two car parks at Glen Loin in Arrochar, along with the parking areas at Duck Bay and in Luss, have all been shut until further notice in a bid to discourage visitors and to try to slow the spread of the virus.

All the national park authority's own visitor facilities, including car parks, toilets, camping and motorhome sites and its slipway at Loch Lomond, have been closed to the public since last month to discourage any further travel or overnight visits to the area.

Mr Watson said: “As we approach the bank holiday weekend, we would normally be welcoming visitors to Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park to enjoy the splendours of spring.

“However, in light of the coronavirus pandemic, it is more important that everyone stays safe by staying home and ensuring that they stay local for exercise.

“Getting outside to get fresh air has never been more important, but if we’re to stop the spread of Covid-19 it is crucial that people who want to exercise don’t leave their local area and maintain at least a 2m distance from others at all times, even outdoors."

Government guidance says people are only allowed to leave their home to take exercise once a day, alone or with other members of their household, as well as for food and other basic supplies, medical or care reasons, or essential work that cannot be done at home.

Mr Watson made a similar plea last month after large numbers of visitors flocked to towns and villages within the national park's boundaries, including Luss, Arrochar, Balloch and Callander, in spite of government pleas to observe 'social distancing' guidelines.

Official instructions banning public gatherings of more than two people were issued by Prime Minister Boris Johnson the following day.

Mr Watson continued: "The risks of spreading the virus in the countryside are the same as in cities and towns.

“We know it’s incredibly tempting but this is not the time to be getting in a car to drive somewhere beyond your local area.

"The national park and all it has to offer will be waiting to welcome you in safer times.

"Until then, we urge everyone to stay safe, stay well and stay local."