Campaigners in the Helensburgh area are rallying residents to sign a petition to protect the scenic beauty of Loch Lomond from a planned upgrade to the A82 road. The petition, led by members of the Helensburgh and District Access Trust and conservation charity The Friends of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs, calls for a reconsideration of the government’s preferred option for the road upgrade.
The Scottish Government’s proposal for the road upgrade involves creating a ‘low road’, a decision that campaigners argue was made without a thorough cost-benefit analysis of all available options. Instead, campaigners are advocating for a ‘high road’ option that would preserve significant natural and historical landmarks along the route, such as ancient oak woods and General Wade’s Road, while minimizing ecological impact.
The petition, initially lodged in September 2022, will be reviewed by the Scottish Parliament’s Citizen Participation and Public Petitions Committee on November 27. At the time of publication, the petition had garnered 746 signatures and is actively seeking more support to safeguard Loch Lomond’s shoreline.
Notable support for the campaign comes from Professor Lynne Pearce of Lancaster University, who emphasised the cultural and recreational value of the A82 route for visitors and locals alike. However, Transport Minister Fiona Hyslop has previously dismissed the campaigners’ alternative proposal as not viable due to engineering and environmental concerns.
Campaigners remain steadfast in their efforts to protect the natural beauty and heritage of Loch Lomond, expressing hopes that the parliament committee will visit the area to witness firsthand the impact of the proposed road upgrade. The continued support for the petition signifies a strong community stance against potential environmental degradation in the region.
In conclusion, the petition to ‘save the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond’ serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving Scotland’s natural landscapes for future generations. The ongoing efforts of campaigners reflect a shared commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development in the region, highlighting the collective responsibility to protect and cherish the country’s rich cultural and ecological heritage.