Motorists have been reminded to please park sensibly. The warning comes as visitors start to arrive in locations they may be unfamiliar with and leave their cars where they may block access for others, including emergency vehicles.

Across Scotland previous years saw a minority of motorists parking irresponsibly. It can create frustration for residents and businesses in towns and for ‘quiet’ beauty spots. On single track roads it is essential to keep passing places free and not blocked up by parking.

The British Parking Association has launched a ‘Selfish Parker’ campaign. It encourages people to respect others and think before they park. Parking restrictions exist for a reason and ‘It’s not OK to park, where it’s not OK to park’.

Kelvin Reynolds, BPA Director of Corporate and Public Affairs said:

“There is good reason to anticipate that some people will ignore the rules, causing obstruction and endangering the lives of other road users, especially pedestrians.  If we all do what’s right, residents as well as visitors can enjoy the holiday season. In short, we’re asking motorists to “Be kind – park with others in mind.”

The impact of so many people thinking antisocial behaviour and poor parking is acceptable is that it increases congestion, contributing to additional pollution and rising frustration from people living in these areas.  Journey times for emergency vehicles get longer, people who are disabled or visually impaired or parents with pushchairs are forced into the path of moving vehicles.

The BPA has some top tips for those planning to visit tourist hot spots:

• Plan your visit – search the location for parking facilities and if possible, book parking in advance
• Find alternatives – to the most popular parking locations by parking further away from your final destination, this could save you time too
• Park responsibly – only park where it is permitted, respect the people living in the community you are visiting and be kind
• Don’t obstruct – pavements, private driveways, or impede access for emergency vehicles
• Don’t litter – take it home with you or find a rubbish bin