Aberdeenshire Council urge people to keep nature beauty spots clean as summer approaches

Aberdeenshire Council have urged those hoping to enjoy the outdoors this summer to keep the region's nature beauty spots clean and tidy.

The local authority highlighted a number of issues last year, such as damaging fires, littering, dirty camping and public toileting which have caused "unnecessary damage" to numerous tourist hotspots.

Councillor Alan Turner, Chair of the Infrastructure Services Committee, said: “We are so grateful that the majority of visitors treat our region with the respect it deserves, but sadly we saw once again last year that some minority elements seem intent on damaging our fragile environment.

“We don’t want to see repeats of fire-blackened woodlands and dunes habitats damaged by campfires or barbecues nor do we want to see litter blighting our countryside and coastline.

“Keeping Aberdeenshire litter free requires us all to work together, so whether you are using our parks, countryside or our beaches, the message remains the same: please take your litter home with you” he continued.

In an attempt to prevent some areas exceeding capacity and avoid the related traffic congestion, Aberdeenshire Council is encouraging people to plan ahead and have a Plan B when visiting the countryside.

Bridget Jones, Recreation and Access Manager for Nature Scot highlighted the importance of this: “Sometimes areas will be excluded, and people will be guided away. The restrictions aren’t there for a huge length of time or there are other areas which are equally good for enjoying your activity”.

Advice has also been extended to dog walkers, wild campers and those passing through rural areas, which stresses following the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

There is also a warning for dogs to be kept under control at all times, including in and around farmlands.

Wild campers are urged to be discrete and considerate of other visitors and nature. The local authority is advising this to be done by only using small tents and staying in an area for no longer than three nights.

The risks of lighting fires and barbecues have also been noted. Bridget Jones of Nature Scot said: “a single spark can cause significant damage, if the winds in the right direction it can be a really big issue. If you don’t need to have a barbecue or a fire, don’t.”

Aberdeenshire is preparing for a busy tourist season which provides essential support to rural businesses and communities.

Tourists from all over Scotland and the world are expected to come to the Northeast. Leader of Aberdeenshire Council, Gillian Owen, said: “Our region boasts some of the finest landscapes, stunning beaches, historic castles, top-class golf courses, wonderful food and drink offerings, and world-renowned attractions that Scotland has to offer.

“Invaluable local volunteer teams who continue to help us keep areas clean and tidy, council teams are busy preparing our country parks, beaches and other attractions to ensure that the facilities are in place to welcome visitors and make their stay as pleasant as possible.”