Strict new rules have been put in place for paddleboarders at a Mearns harbour.
New rules for Stonehaven have been issued in conjunction with the Scottish Canoe Association (SCA) which “must be complied with at all times.”
The new restrictions have been implemented following a number of incidents.
Paddleboarding is permitted in the Botany Bay area of the harbour, but not in the navigation channel, entrance to the middle harbour, along the side of the net pier, or the inner and outer harbours.
Anyone planning to paddleboard should alert the harbourmaster.
An Aberdeenshire Council spokesman said: “The number of paddleboarders in the harbour area is increasing as the popularity of the sport continues to rise and the council must ensure that paddleboarders can continue to enjoy their sport safely.
“The council is also required to ensure that vessels can safely navigate the harbour area.
“This decision has been taken for safety reasons following a number of reported incidents that had the potential for serious consequences.”
Paddleboard restrictions at Stonehaven harbour introduced
