Important advice for visitors to Barra and Vatersay
As the 2023 tourist season approaches officers on the Isles of Barra and Vatersay are getting ready to welcome visitors.
It’s important everyone visiting the islands enjoys the wonderful amenities on offer but that they do so with consideration to other visitors and those lucky enough to live here all year round.
In the past there have been issues with people ignoring restrictions and parking in designated passing places or parking their vehicles causing obstructions. This behaviour results in traffic issues and disruption.
People have discarded their rubbish without thinking about the impact it has on the beautiful environment or the unsightly mess it leaves.
Pets are not being kept under control and have attacked livestock, causing significant distress to the animals and potential financial detriment to crofters.
To help get our message across lamp post wraps are being displayed in areas where issues have been raised in the past and where there is a high footfall of tourists and traffic. We are also displaying them on the main ferry service from Oban to Barra.
Two of the panels display QR codes, when scanned, link the user directly to either the Buth Bharraigh providing up to date information on the shops and services available on Barra and Vatersay. The other QR code links to the Outer Hebrides site for the Western Isles giving information on campsites, amenities and a valuable guide on how to drive, walk and cycle the Hebridean roads safely.
Constable Phil Farndell said: “We look forward to welcoming visitors from all over the world to these beautiful, scenic islands. All we ask is that when you are here, you are considerate and respectful to other visitors and to local residents. Please dispose of your rubbish and waste responsibly, keep your pets under control and adhere to the restrictions. Let’s all work together to ensure we can all enjoy the stunning and striking beauty the islands have to offer.”
