This week's Community Column is written by Helensburgh Community Council convener Norman Muir.

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

The success of the recent Highland Games should alert all of us in the town to an influx of visitors this summer.

There were many overseas visitors in attendance and the expectation should be that more will follow. Certainly, the publicity that the Hill House has attracted with its protective ‘shield’ should play its part.

We need to capitalize on whatever comes and make sure the town leaves a favourable and lasting impression on our visitors.

READ MORE: In Pictures: Helensburgh and Lomond's 2019 Highland Games

The Community Council and its volunteers play our part in monthly beach cleans and maintenance of the shrub beds in the Square.

Could we please ask the community to be more litter-conscious, particularly in the centre of town and shop owners/keepers to maintain the cleanliness of the pavement area in front of their premises.

Graffiti and misbehaviour in Hermitage Park continue to be a problem. We don’t know who Dinky, Scubba, Dylan, Micky, Mandy G, et al. are, but someone does.

They are either self-publicists or others are taking their names in vain. Either way it is unsightly and must stop.

READ MORE: Helensburgh police to step up anti-vandal patrols in Hermitage Park

Similarly, the old adage of disposing of litter when you leave the countryside to go home applies equally to the Park, and there are enough waste bins on site for this purpose.

Many towns in the country would give a great deal to have such a public park in the centre of town, so we must treasure what we have.

* * * * * * *

Argyll and Bute Council’s consultation on a possible new conservation area in the centre of the town closed on Wednesday; we hope many of you took part and shared your views on the proposal.

A second consultation for community interest and action will be launched soon – this one on Argyll and Bute’s Local Development Plan 2, which is due for adoption in 2020.

READ MORE: Check out all the latest Helensburgh and Lomond news headlines here

It lays down the local planning framework for our area and for guiding land use and development for up to 10 years ahead. The consultation period will take place mid-2019. We will circulate further details when known.