Highlands and Islands MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston is again urging action to address the growing problem of “dirty camping” across his region.
The Scottish Conservative MSP, who has written to the chief executive of Highland Council seeking an update on its own activities in tackling the problem, said:
“This problem continues to worsen, with communities across the Highlands and Islands struggling to cope with the increased numbers of visitors and the impact it is having on the natural environment. Last summer I urged the Scottish Government to take the matter more seriously and investigate the possibilities for greater measures of enforcement given that the Outdoor Access Code is being routinely ignored in some locations."
“Sadly, I don’t think enough is being done, and we are seeing rough camping taking place in locations where it should be prevented, not to mention waste disposal taking place outside of designated sites."
“And I have to emphasise the seriousness of this. There is the very real possibility of public health risks such as water courses being contaminated, wildfires, and the work of local farmers and crofters being disrupted."
“We badly need a joined-up approach from the authorities to help our communities cope otherwise I fear the situation will continue to deteriorate as the summer progresses.”
