Deputy Environment Minister Sarah Boyack has issued five-year plans for the management of the Cairngorms and Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Parks.

Key among the bye-laws revised under the plan is a restriction on the use of jet skis on Loch Lomond. An extension in the area of the Loch covered by speed and noise reductions from 22 per cent to 30 per cent will help reduce noise pollution and improve safety.

The Cairngorms plan aims to improve the management of the park and protect its most beautiful features. A private member’s bill by SNP MSP John Swinney aimed at increasing the boundaries of the Cairngorms National Park failed to win the approval of the Environment and Rural Development parliamentary committee earlier this month.

Commenting on the plans, Boyack said:

“I am delighted to approve, at the same time, the first ever Plans for both of Scotland's National Parks. This demonstrates the significant progress that has been made since the two National Parks were set up several years ago . The Parks were established to protect the outstanding natural beauty of the areas. These Plans are integral to that objective whilst also addressing other important issues such as living and working in the Park, tourism and outdoor recreation.

“The Park Plan is a shared vision for the future of the Park. I would like to congratulate all the organisations, communities and businesses who have been involved and, in particular the Park Authority, which has taken the lead in the preparation of the Plan”.

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