Scots council slaps NC500 tourists with fee to drive motorhomes and campervans

A Scots council has introduced a new charge for NC500 campervan and motorhome tourists - "the first of its kind" in the UK.

The Highlands Council launched the Highland Campervan and Motorhome Scheme, which will see visitors with large vehicles charged £40 for a seven-day pass.

It is hoped the funds will help the local authority improve services for tourists and locals alike. Some of the cash will go towards improving services including public toilets and wastewater infrastructure as well as other environmental and ecological protections.

A contribution from scheme payments will also be made to the Highland Restoration Fund.

The weekly pass will also provide inclusive overnight parking in specified car parks throughout the Highlands.

The fee is currently optional and is offered for "conscious" travellers.

Highland Council Assistant Chief Executive Allan Gunn said: “The launch of the Highland Campervan and Motorhome Scheme is understood to be the first of its kind by any UK local authority.

"‘Conscious travellers’ who opt for the seven-day pass have access to scheme benefits that will support continued improvements to services such as public toilets, wastewater infrastructure, and environmental and ecological protections.

“There is an identified need for facilities to accommodate campervans, motorhomes, roof tents and people who are using vehicles for short stayovers.

"This scheme offers an opportunity for the Council to continue to support local priorities relating to tourism and visitor management.

"The Highland Council has also committed funds that will be invested towards improving the existing infrastructure and to provide more council-owned sites.”

News of the scheme has sparked mixed reviews between locals and tourists.

Isobel Macleod said: "This sounds like an excellent scheme for those who have self-contained vans and only want to park up for the night - £40 for 7 days is a real bargain.

"I do hope it reduces the abuse of the countryside by those who do not dispose of waste appropriately. However, I think the scheme should be limited to self-contained vehicles."

Janette McCutcheon fumed: "A completely crazy scheme! How many motorhome owners will voluntarily pay? Not many! Those who pay will think they own the Highlands and can do what they like.

"Better changing the law so that they cannot wild camp without an expensive permit, and this means they will have to stay on campsites or with businesses who permit them to stay in their car parks which will bring in money to local businesses."

Tracy McLachlan added: "It's better than nothing and it's a start, but in my view, the scheme should be mandatory, not voluntary.

"There needs to be a charged place to park every few miles - 12 car parks in the whole of the Highlands is not enough. And this scheme does nothing about motorhomes who park out with car parks and pay nothing."

James Martin, Director of Sport, Leisure and Safeguarding at High Life Highland, said: “We very much welcome the introduction of the Campervan and Motorhome Scheme and are delighted to be able to offer High Life Highland showering and changing facilities to those holidaymakers who choose to purchase the seven-day pass.

"Most visitors like to do the right thing when it comes to touring round the Highlands and I am sure the scheme will prove popular, particularly with those who like to ‘give something back’ with a contribution from the funds raised going towards projects that will help conserve and enhance our natural environment.”

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