NC500 Launches Study to Plan for Generations to Come
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An impact assessment aims to curb the environmental impact on the area, as well as minimise the impact of increased usage. The NC500 is a 516-mile stretch of road in the Scottish Highlands infamous for both its immense natural beauty and rising popularity.
Concerns in recent years around increasing traffic on particular single-track roads, as well as littering and inadequate toilet provision, have prompted the initiative.
Henry Hurt Junior Content Editor
Henry Hurt Junior Content Editor
Ken Gowans, chair of the Highland Council’s economy and infrastructure committee, said,
The Highland Council welcomes this important assessment of the NC500’s environmental, social and economic impacts, and is grateful to be contributing to its preparation to help shape its scope so that it reflects the needs and aspirations of Highland communities.
Reports from 2023 cited 8,657 incidents of outdoor toileting across the Highlands that year, including 126 cases where “black water” toilet waste from campervans was dumped.
As a direct result of these findings, new public toilets and motorhome waste facilities will be built along the route.
David Richardson, development and engagement manager at NC500 Ltd, attributed much of the issue to the pandemic and the way it altered how the route is used.
However, Richardson added that, moving forward, the changes could create “good local jobs” in the north of Scotland, reducing the need for residents to leave the area in search of work.
NC500 Ltd said the study will provide a framework to track impacts over time, ensuring actions are effective and the route’s “full potential is realised”.
Top tips for camping on the North Coast 500
The North Coast 500 road trip around the northern tip of the Scottish mainland is an amazing experience and one that we'd recommend all campers try if they can.
So, if you want to try your hand at this road trip, here are our camping tips.
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