Enjoy West Lothian's beautiful parks responsibly

Staycations and an increase in visitor numbers has brought about changes within some local parks and the team responsible for looking after West Lothian’s greenspaces are appealing to visitors to play their part in helping to keep our much loved venues safe and looking beautiful.
By Kevin Quinn
Published 11th Jun 2021, 13:00 GMT
Councillor Tom Conn joined staff from the council’s parks team at Beecraigs to see the arrangements in place for a safe summer with an increase in visitor numbers expected. Photo by Paul Watt.Councillor Tom Conn joined staff from the council’s parks team at Beecraigs to see the arrangements in place for a safe summer with an increase in visitor numbers expected. Photo by Paul Watt.
Councillor Tom Conn joined staff from the council’s parks team at Beecraigs to see the arrangements in place for a safe summer with an increase in visitor numbers expected. Photo by Paul Watt.

Executive councillor for the environment, Tom Conn said: “Parks and greenspaces are great for exercise, relaxing and boosting your physical and mental health. Given the circumstances over the past 18 months, there has, at times, been issues with overcrowding, litter and parking so we are appealing to everyone to play their part and help ensure parks remain safe and looking beautiful this summer.”

West Lothian Council recently secured funding from NatureScot to recruit two seasonal ranger posts and two country park operatives. The roles will help the current team to meet an increase in demand for services over the summer. This project is supported by NatureScot, through the Better Places Green Recovery Fund.

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Eirwen Hopwood, the council’s Park and Woodland Manager added: “We have wonderful parks and open spaces and we are passionate about improving them, keeping them safe and ensuring visitors have a great time. Our team are ready to welcome visitors, as they always are, and we need visitors to play their part in helping us to look after them. We are very grateful for the support provided by NatureScot.”

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If everyone follows these park tips, West Lothian’s parks will remain beautiful this summer.

Parking

Park only in designated parking areas and always have a back up plan. If a park or beauty spot id very busy, go to another park

Litter

Always pick up after your dog and dispose of the waste in the litter bin

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Always, always, always put your litter in a bin. If you can, take it home with you where you can recycle your waste. Where a bin is not provided or is full, don’t leave it lying about – take it home.

Distance

Follow social distancing and give people plenty space

Wear face coverings where appropriate – especially at the visitor centres at Almondell & Calderwood and Beecraigs

Clean

Bring sanitiser or wipes with you to the park.

Related topics:West LothianStaycations