Following the council’s decision, some of Highlands‘ rural areas (Scotland) will benefit from a substantial investment in tourism.
As per a report, the council has voted to invest £1.5 million for various measures designed to boost tourism and safeguard the natural environment.
The first to be addressed are four remote areas identified as hotspots by the council’s own access seasonal rangers.
The hotspots include Durness and Assynt located in Sutherland, Glenbrittle in Skye, and Road to the Isles in Lochaber.
These areas have felt the brunt of the staycation boom caused by the pandemic and the success of the NC500.
In these most remote areas of Highland, the road struggled with the increased tourism traffic. Speeding, verge parking, and overflowing car parks have become common.
Locals and farmers have been complaining about the harm to the environment caused by reckless tourist behavior.
Rangers have collected various photos of wild camping and tree felling, littering, and toileting.
The decision will see significant investment in parking and road improvements and new signage to improve behavior. It will also pay for seasonal wardens and destination managers working alongside stakeholders in the newly formed local forums.
Councilor Margaret Paterson said the main goal should be education, as many people who visit are not behaving well.
Colin Howell, head of infrastructure and roads, said that some education relies on national policies. Howell explained to members that VisitScotland’s recent campaign revolves around a “tread lightly” message.
Councilor Allan Henderson stressed the need for a united method of Highland tourism.
“The beauty of this plan is the fairly remote areas realize they’re not alone,” he said. “The ‘ban them all’ brigade now realize we do have to work together to make better experiences for visitors and locals.”