Scotland and Wales easing of restrictions and diving

As restrictions are relaxed in Scotland and Wales, BSAC Safety and Development Manager Jim Watson updates on what this means for divers. 

BSAC continues to work with partners, including ScotSAC and Sport Scotland, to monitor the relaxation of restrictions in Scotland and Wales and have updated the ‘STATUS’ document with recent changes. View all BSAC's Safe Return to diving guidance.

Scotland

BSAC and ScotSAC have lodged their guidance with Sport Scotland and diving is now on the list of allowable outdoor sports on the Sport Scotland website. 

On 3 July the five-mile travel restriction was formally lifted allowing realistic travel to dive sites across the country and allowing travel into Scotland from other countries. However, you should not travel in the same vehicle with anyone outside your own household.

Scotland allows members of up to three households to meet outdoors up to a maximum of eight people, who must maintain social distancing of at least 2m.

Wales

On 6 July the five-mile travel restriction was formally lifted allowing realistic travel to dive sites across the country and allowing travel into Wales from other countries. However, you should not travel in the same vehicle with anyone outside your own household. Press release from Wales First Minister on travelling safely

Wales allows members of only two households to meet outdoors for exercise and sport whilst maintaining social distancing of at least 2m. Consequently, limited shore diving may be possible only with a single buddy pair or with larger groups who are represented only by two households.

Until further changes are enacted to allow tourism, overnight stays are not allowed.

Responsible behaviour

Divers are also advised to adopt even more cautious diving practices to account for the extended period away from activity and reduce as much as possible any demand on the emergency services.

Both Scottish and Welsh governments are issuing advice to travel safely and considerately and to respect the environment.

Including, in light of the coronavirus pandemic, visitors to the countryside are asked to:

Respect other people

• Consider the local community and other people enjoying the outdoors
• Park carefully so access remains clear

Protect the natural environment

• Leave no trace of your visit, take all your litter home
• Be careful with barbecues and don’t light fires

Enjoy the outdoors

• Plan ahead, check what facilities are open, be prepared
• Follow advice and local signs and obey social distancing measures