WALKERS heading for the Kilpatrick Hills may be banned from leaving their cars on residential streets in Old Kilpatrick.

The move comes after a motion at the full council last week where one councillor called the issue ‘an accident waiting to happen’.

West Dunbartonshire councillors have been urged to find a parking strategy for those who like to make the most of the countryside, without disrupting the village’s residents.

At last Wednesday’s full council meeting, a motion was presented calling for measures to prevent hill walkers parking on residential streets.

Labour councillor Douglas McAllister, one of the councillors representing the Kilpatrick ward, which includes Old Kilpatrick, said: “Of course, it is welcome to see so many young people enjoy access to our hills and we all know the reasons why.

“But this can cause dangerous activity including access to driveways, blocking other roads and there has been traffic chaos.

“I presume we have all received emails from local residents. I am aware that the chief executive has been in ongoing discussions with Police Scotland in their commitment to increase patrols.

“They have made the point that their powers are fairly limited. Some view this is a temporary situation which will subside once restrictions are lifted. I am not entirely convinced.

“The report is looking for cohesion for data consistency to allow council to decide what action it can take to satisfy the residents.”

Members agreed that action needed to be taken that would encourage people to continue walking in the hills without disrupting local residents.

SNP councillor Marie McNair commented: “We have a community council meeting next week to see how we can take this forward.

“It is important that people can access the hills but it is important that we find a solution to alleviate the problems.

“I know council officers are encouraging the public to leave their car at home and walk to the hills. We really want a resolve to this matter and find a compromise.”

Labour councillor Gail Casey added: “I agree entirely in what Douglas says and what Marie says. I have had some dialogue with residents who live near the hills.

“What is happening on Station Road is an accident waiting to happen. Cars can’t come out and in because there are so many parked cars.

“We really do need an alternative solution to the problem. We need a parking strategy for the Kilpatrick Hills. It could be a real tourist attraction for us.”