'Stay local' message when exercising or walking dogs
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Maree Todd has urged the public to "stay local" when exercising and walking dogs, and avoid any unnecessary travel that could help spread coronavirus.
Official advice from the Scottish and UK governments warns that people should not be driving somewhere with the intention of doing exercise or walking their dog – with new powers granted to police to enforce these regulations.
Ms Todd said: "Of course exercise is extremely important for people’s physical and mental wellbeing so it's important to note that people in the Highlands can leave their homes for exercise once a day, with members of their own household.
"However, you should only be outside for a reasonable purpose – buying food or essential household or medical supplies, travelling to or carrying out essential work, exercising once a day, or providing care or assistance to others.
"People in the Highlands should make use of gardens – if they can – and stay local when exercising or walking dogs, to ensure that we stop the spread of coronavirus.
"This is about saving lives and protecting our NHS. We all recognise how unusual these regulations are, and the Scottish Government will act to remove these restrictions as soon as it is safe to do so."
You should not travel to access the outdoors.
In statement issued today, Highland Council said: "During this time of restrictions it is important that we all stay active, for our physical health and mental well being.
"Recreation outside is an important element of this, but it is essential that each of us practise good social distancing while outside. You should not travel to access the outdoors, and your time spent outside exercising should be done close to your home rather than travelling elsewhere.
"Highland Council playground equipment is currently closed until further notice. This decision was taken to reduce the potential for transference of the virus from surfaces. As the playgrounds are closed, the equipment is no longer subject to safety inspections.
"If you live close to a play park, the open space is still available to you, but please do not allow young ones to play on the equipment. Please also observe social distancing as guided by government.
"Highland’s landscape and natural beauty are exceptional, and facilities, including our public parks, are there to help residents and visitors enjoy these benefits. However, during this unprecedented time, these facilities are essentially 'out of bounds' to anyone who does not live within short walking distance.
"Please do not travel to these locations. Once the current restrictions are lifted we will welcome you back with open arms, but at the moment we ask that you comply with the national guidance and stay at home.
"It has also been necessary to close all Highland Council-run public toilets throughout our communities for public safety, including play and public parks, so please be aware of that as you plan your activities out of doors and close to home.
"Your help and understanding is essential at this challenging time. It is only by us all working together, following government advice, that we can defeat this, save lives and protect the NHS."
