Loch Ness clean up a collaborative success

A joint project to clean up the shores of Loch Ness has hauled in over four pick-up lorry loads of rubbish and reclaimed the scenic beauty of this world-famous tourism destination.

Funding for the clean-up was provided by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) through their community clean up scheme. The project was coordinated by Destination Loch Ness and supported by Highland Council Members for Aird and Loch Ness and the Council’s TEC Services.

Graeme Ambrose, Executive Director of Destination Loch Ness Ltd. commissioned contractors James and Dan Clark to undertake a Loch-side litter clean up by boat on both sides of the Loch.

Graeme said: “Destination Loch Ness represents over 70 businesses that are dependant upon tourism around the shores of Loch Ness. The image that we portray to our visitors both domestic and overseas is vital to the local economy. We know that there is a demand to ensure that the area is kept clean and tidy and we are making every effort to ensure that this happens.”

Key supporter of the clean up project Aird and Loch Ness Highland Councillor Margaret Davidson said: “I am absolutely delighted at the hard work and results that the clean up produced – but at the same time saddened that there continues to be a minority among our communities who think nothing of ruining the shoreline of our most famous tourist icon Loch Ness. I would urge everyone to be vigilant and look out of for Dumb Dumpers.

She added: “Dumping waste is illegal; therefore anyone who does it is committing a serious offence and can be prosecuted. If you see anyone dumping rubbish illegally then call the Dumb Dumpers Stop Line on 0845 2 30 40 90.”

The haul of rubbish included seven large electrical appliances, fridges and washing machines, an assortment of rubbish from chairs and shopping trolleys to tyres, wheels and oil drums including a kitchen sink.

All the rubbish collected was landed at Foyers Pier and Highland Council’s TEC Services provided transportation of the haul to the Council’s recycling centre at Inverness Longman.

For further information please contact: Graeme Ambrose, Executive Director, Destination Loch Ness Ltd tel: 01456 486457. Peter Taylor, Education & Enforcement Officer, The Highland Council TEC Services,