ALL council-run car parks in the Helenbsurgh and Lomond area are to re-open for use this weekend, while public toilets will also open up again from next week.

Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced a futher easing of lockdown restrictions today with measures being relaxed from tomorrow, Friday, including the travel restriction limiting people to staying within a five mile radius of their home for leisure and recreation.

Public facilities across Argyll and Bute can now start to open and from Friday, July 3, all car parks including Duck Bay and Luss will re-open, while the public toilets at Helensburgh pier will open from Monday, July 6 and the public toilets in Rhu will re-open from Wednesday, July 15.

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The council says this phased approach will enable the local authority to "keep both customers and staff safe" and "provide an enhanced cleaning regime during the summer period". Extra funding will be provided to support the added cleanliness requirements and the process will be reviewed in August.

The council has urged caution during the phased re-opening of facilities, warning that public toilets "will only remain open with the cooperation and responsible use by the public". A full list of open toilets across the region can be found on the council's website.

The enforcement of car parking charges is also set to resume from Saturday, July 11 with wardens in place to monitor the road network and car parks.

The council's advice for residents as they prepare for the further relaxation of lockdown measures includes guidance on avoiding busy, popular beauty spots, remaining two metres apart, not gathering in large groups, and continuing to wash your hands regularly.

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