North MSPs take heart from 'constructive' talks over tourism complaints
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North MSPs Gail Ross and Maree Todd say they have taken heart from virtual talks this week with the North Coast 500 organisation – but warn there is still "a long way to go" to resolve problems linked to this summer's large influx of post-lockdown tourists.
The SNP politicians are keen to ensure there is no repeat of the catalogue of complaints that have emerged over the irresponsible actions of some visitors, with communities across the Highlands angered by litter, abandoned tents, fire damage and even human waste left behind.
Mrs Ross, who represents Caithness, Sutherland and Ross, and Ms Todd, a regional MSP for the Highlands and Islands, were among those who joined the latest NC500 business engagement webinar and they described the session as constructive. Business owners also took part, along with NC500 representatives.
Scotland’s tourism sector was given the go-ahead to reopen on July 15 as coronavirus restrictions were eased, with the far north proving to be a popular destination for staycations.
Mrs Ross said: “I found it very useful to meet with representatives of the NC500 and various businesses along the route. It was clear that everyone agrees there are several issues to be addressed and that this needs to be done before the tourism season begins next year.
"I was heartened to hear that my suggestion of getting the NC500 working group together again is happening, and hopefully this will lead to positive solutions.
“One other thing that needs to happen now is more community involvement. It was suggested that having a representative from each community to feed into the NC500 about changes in facilities could be possible, and I think this would be very valuable.
“I am satisfied that there have been some moves towards solutions but it is clear we have a long way to go yet and more discussions are needed with both the Scottish Government and Highland Council. I really hope that we can now move forward to help our communities realise the positives of tourism in the future.”
Ms Todd said: “Over the last month, many constituents have reached out to me to raise concerns about the NC500 route and the unacceptable behaviour of some visitors. With reports of litter, human waste, abandoned tents and fire damage, this not only presents a risk to public health but also raises serious environmental concerns.
“I was pleased to meet with NC500 representatives and stakeholders to discuss the issues affecting tourism in the far north. Improved infrastructure, education on responsible camping and better communication between communities, Highland Council and NC500 representatives were common themes.
“I was reassured by the mutual level of concern around the issues raised and felt the eagerness to find workable solutions.
“We're well known for our welcome here in the Highlands and we're rightly proud of our beautiful surroundings. Of course we want to share this with visitors, but this has to be done safely and responsibly.
“I look forward to further discussions taking place as we look to plan ahead for the next tourist season."
Tom Campbell, executive chairman of North Coast Ltd, said the organisation fully supported the MSPs’ concerns about the irresponsible and antisocial behaviour of a minority of visitors on the tourist route.
“We’re delighted that north MSPs from all political parties were able to accept our invitation to join the latest NC500 business engagement webinar," Mr Campbell said.
“NC500 welcomes the opportunity to work with all north MSPs to help address these issues as part of our ongoing series of webinars and we look forward to discussing the positive solutions proposed by all participating stakeholders as quickly as possible in the weeks and months ahead.
“NC500 is already taking a lead by staging regular business engagement webinars and inviting positive solutions from all north MSPs, Highland Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Police Scotland and VisitScotland, all of whom engage with local communities.
“NC500 fully supports this vital tourism economy and the businesses that are an integral part of local community life in the north Highlands. These businesses employ neighbours, friends and local young people, who are facing the most significant negative impact on employment and wellbeing in generations. All agencies and the government must do all that we can to support them.”
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