Caravan plan near Groats would benefit North Coast 500 visitors

A CARAVAN and campervan complex near John O’ Groats would cater for “a growing demand” for sites close to the popular North Coast 500 route.

That is the view of East Dunbartonshire, man, Andrew Forrest who has submitted a planning application to Highland Council for consent for the proposal on land 110 metres north-west of Parkview, Auckengill. The complex would include a toilet/shower block, an office and a bungalow.

But the plan is opposed by an objector who says the proposed access to the caravan site is on a bend. The road is a single track,in a fragile state with potholes and not suitable for the amount of caravans and campervans that would be using it. He also points out the road is single track, does not have a footpath and is regularly used by children walking to and from the school bus, cyclists, walkers, joggers and horse riders.

However, Mr Forrest’s Wick-based agent, David Sutherland said: "The purpose of the campervan/caravan site is to fulfil a growing demand for sites close to the NC500 route and in particular encourage the responsible use of regulated and well maintained locations which will help alleviate the pressure on land and in particular unauthorised stops on roadsides and open land.

"The location on the Auckengill loop was chosen due to its close proximity to the A99 (NC500) and the closeness to both the tourist area of John O Groats and the main town of Wick. It was therefore viewed as an attractive and appealing location for visitors to the area.

The site entrance on the Auckengill Loop is set 760 metres back from the A99 (NC500) and it is accepted that current passing places will be

inadequate. The applicant will increase the length of the dedicated passing place to a length of 15metres if that has not already been achieved with the existing passing place. This will ensure easy passing and also accommodate Highland Council waste lorries."

The site would also include:

* Electric hook up points at all stances

*Waste collection area to ensure maximisation of recycling.

*Planting of some trees and bushes to enhance the area and increase wildlife. The applicant will agree on a planting scheme

with the council, it was stated.

Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.