NEW restrictions are being put in place at an East Renfrewshire beauty spot due to “irresponsible parking” during the Covid pandemic.

A growing number of people have been visiting Whitelee Windfarm, which sits on the Eaglesham Moors, but concerns have been raised over motorists parking on the public road near the main car park and visitor centre.

Now a round-the-clock parking ban is to be introduced next week to deter drivers, with signage put in place.

Councillor Jim McLean, who represents Mearns South and Eaglesham, told the Barrhead News that parking issues on the Moor Road have been an “ongoing” problem for some time.

He said: “From my point of view, I think it is great that so many people are using the windfarm for recreational purposes during these trying times we are all living in. It does, however, cause another problem with the amount of cars parking on the main road.

“During lockdown, we are seeing an increase in recreational activities such as people out walking and cycling and, whilst not illegal, drivers have been parking on the verge, blocking the cycle lane on the Moor Road, which has thankfully not resulted in any injury to any cyclist.”

Councillor McLean is hoping ScottishPower, which owns the windfarm, will consider making more parking spaces available.

“What is required is a larger car park area within the windfarm, which is something ScottishPower should be looking into,” he added. “With the windfarm becoming more and more popular, ScottishPower should consider this.

“Parking at the Carrot Farm and the Over Enoch Road has also seen an increase, which will be the subject of parking restrictions coming into force on February 15.”
East Renfrewshire Council has asked those visiting the site to “park appropriately and follow the new restrictions.”

A spokesperson added: “Following concerns being raised, a 24-hour restriction is being introduced to address the increased number of drivers parking on the public road near the main access and visitors’ access to Whitelee Windfarm.

“Irresponsible parking is dangerous for other road users, in particular cyclists and pedestrians.”