Home / Crime and Justice / Forest Car Park Ruined by Joyriders
Forest Car Park Ruined by Joyriders
4 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Drivers caused significant damage by doing 'donuts' on gravel.
- Recent £20,000 car park and trail improvements were marred.
- Resources must now be diverted from tree planting and path repairs.
Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) is appealing for public assistance following extensive vandalism at a car park near Contin in Ross-shire. Drivers engaging in dangerous manoeuvres, described as 'donuts,' have caused deep ruts, significantly damaging the gravel surface. This incident follows a recent £20,000 investment by FLS to improve the car park and the nearby Blackwater Trail, enhancing accessibility for all visitors.
The damage has left FLS officials disappointed, as limited resources must now be redirected towards costly repairs and clean-up operations. Paul Hibberd, regional visitor services manager for FLS, highlighted that this diversion of funds could jeopardize crucial activities such as path maintenance and new tree planting initiatives. The site has also experienced issues with illegal quad bike access and a burnt-out car found in the woodlands.
FLS urges anyone witnessing such anti-social behaviour to report it to Police Scotland with as much detail as possible. The affected area is a popular destination for families, elderly and disabled visitors, and cyclists, and hosts the annual Strathpuffer endurance race. FLS manages Scotland's national forests and land, emphasizing the importance of preserving these valuable natural resources for everyone.
