East Lothian’s beaches and coastlines make the area a fantastic place to live.

Access to these beaches is vital for many, whether they are wild swimming, dog walking, surfing, paddleboarding, undertaking photography, keeping fit, or simply enjoying the countryside. A recent report by Marine Scotland has highlighted the importance of access to blue coastal space in improving society’s mental health and wellbeing.

I, like many others, have therefore been dismayed by East Lothian Council’s recent introduction of parking bans from 10pm to 6am at coastal car parks.

I understand that they have introduced this to try and stop people camping overnight on beaches and potentially causing anti-social behaviour.

However, this parking time ban is using a sledgehammer to crack a nut.

There are many people using the car parks and beaches within these hours for recreation during the summer months, when there is light late into the evening and very early in the morning.

The strength of feeling on this is growing, with around 1,000 people already signing a petition for a rethink.

The council has a difficult job to balance management of the area’s beaches, but let’s not penalise one group for the sake of another.

If the council’s employees read this letter, I’m hopeful a more balanced measure can be put in place quickly during the summer months.

Could a practical start be to make the parking ban be between the hours 11pm to 4am as a first step during the summer?

Whilst getting rid of this ban entirely would be preferable, maybe this measure could signal a willingness to listen – here’s hoping.

Steve Williams

Gullane