Huge rise in travel during first weekend coming out of lockdown

Statistics from Transport Scotland showed traffic across Scotland over the weekend was up to 70 per cent higher than the previous weekend, while the increase on the A82 at Loch Lomond was 200 per cent higher than the previous Saturday.

Transport secretary Michael Matheson warned that the reduction in lockdown measures seen so far was dependent on public cooperation.

He said “We have only been able to ease some of the lockdown measures as the public have followed guidance closely up to this point, so I would urge people to continue to play their part.

“We have seen a significant rise in traffic this past weekend. At Loch Lomond, traffic levels were more than three times higher than the previous Saturday – and in the middle of the afternoon over four times higher. On our rail network, Balloch station saw an increase in passenger numbers.

“These volumes go beyond what would be expected to be generated by local residents, nor are they in keeping with people staying within five miles of home or by people travelling a reasonable distance to meet loved ones.

“While you can leave the house for exercise and recreation, the guidance says you should not be going any further than five miles from home and to avoid tourist destinations and beauty spots. You should also maintain physical distancing when you do go out and wear face coverings on public transport”

“I realise that this is difficult for everyone, particularly with the weather being so good, but we can only take steps towards a less restricted lifestyle, and then consider taking further steps to ease lockdown measures, if people continue to follow the guidance.”