Car park barrier at Burleigh Sands Public Car Park, Kinross

“NatureScot who manage the carpark confirm that the last two years have seen unprecedented levels of use of the carpark and the sands for camping. Most of the camping is beyond the accepted definition of wild camping - large tents and marquees, staying multiple nights and arriving by vehicles. Overnight stays by campervans have also increased in 2024, over 800 motorhomes were recorded using the car park.”

“To give flexibility and an ability to manage the above issues, NatureScot have applied to install a height barrier and hinged gate at the entrance to Burleigh carpark. The barrier would extend 6 metres across the width of the entrance, and to a height of 2.1 metres. The finished colour of the barrier would be bright yellow.”

“The Burleigh Sands carpark is located to the northeast of Kinross and north of Loch Leven. Burleigh Sands is an easily accessed part of the National Nature Reserve (NNR) from the carpark and is very popular with dog walkers and recreational users of the trail. The carpark has capacity for 30 cars.”

“07/02187/FUL Full Planning Permission was approved on 15 January 2008 for proposed enlargement of existing rural car park by 20 spaces, selective tree felling and landscape works.”

“17/01096/SCRN on 30 August 2017 for erection of holiday park, visitor centre (ancillary cafe/restaurant with commercial space), with supporting recreational infrastructure.”

“Conclusion and Reasons for Recommendation…”

“To conclude, the application must be determined in accordance with the Development Plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise. In this respect, the proposal is considered to comply with NPF4, and the adopted Local Development Plan 2 (2019). Account has been taken account of the relevant material considerations and none has been found that would justify overriding the Development Plan.”

“Milnathort and Orwell Community Council - Objection to proposal due to restriction of access (which may affect those with disabilities) and may increase illegal parking out with carpark.”

“Transportation and Development - No objection to the proposal and no conditions required.”

“− the visual impact of the barrier; − how access is maintained; and, − whether there are any impacts on the public road network.”

“The applicant has provided supporting information detailing that the barrier height at 2.1 metres is unlikely to prevent access to cars with roof boxes. However, should any disabled user have problems with wheelchairs stored in roof boxes NatureScot have confirmed that they are happy to make local arrangements and provide an access code to the barrier.”

“Conditions 1. This planning permission will last only for three years from the date of this decision notice, unless the development has been lawfully started within that period. Reason: This is a Planning Permission in terms of Section 58 of the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997, as amended by Section 32 of the Planning (Scotland) Act 2019. 2.”

“Justification The proposal is in accordance with the Development Plan and there are no material reasons which justify departing from the Development Plan.”