A Scottish MSP has issued a stark warning to the Highland Council about the escalating crisis caused by campervans and motorhomes parking overnight without regulation across the region.
Ariane Burgess MSP has formally contacted the council’s chief executive, expressing grave concerns about the environmental damage and safety hazards created by unrestricted overnight camping in public car parks.
The intervention comes after numerous complaints from local residents, tourism operators and campsite owners throughout the Highlands and Islands region.
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In her correspondence, the MSP highlighted how the council’s existing motorhome policy has led to severe overcrowding, environmental degradation, safety issues and significant revenue losses for legitimate camping businesses.
“The Highlands welcomes visitors with open arms, but unmanaged overnight parking is creating real problems for communities and small businesses,” she stated.
The MSP detailed disturbing accounts from constituents who have documented bins overflowing with rubbish, human waste left in public spaces, and serious safety risks in car parks never intended for overnight accommodation.
“People have written to me about overflowing bins, human waste, and safety hazards in public car parks that were never designed for overnight stays.
“These are not isolated incidents – they’re becoming routine. If we want sustainable tourism, we need to face this issue head-on,” Burgess explained.
The MSP called on the council to introduce tougher parking and driving rules for motorhomes
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GETTYVisual evidence, including video recordings and photographs from various locations such as Torvean Car Park in Inverness, demonstrates the extent of overnight motorhome occupation.
The situation has deteriorated to the point where these incidents have become commonplace rather than exceptional occurrences across Highland communities.
The Highland Caravan and Campsites Association has reported that legitimate camping businesses are suffering dramatic revenue drops as motorhome users opt for free overnight parking instead of paid facilities.
Campsite proprietors have witnessed a marked reduction in reservations, directly attributed to the widespread availability of unregulated overnight parking spots.
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The association informed Burgess that certain motorhome users have gone beyond simply avoiding campsite fees, with some individuals illegally entering private camping facilities to use amenities without authorisation or payment.
This behaviour has created an unfair competitive environment where law-abiding businesses investing in proper facilities and safety standards are being undercut by uncontrolled free parking areas.
The financial impact threatens the viability of established camping businesses that contribute to the local economy through employment and tourism infrastructure.
The council operates a voluntary payment system at designated car parks, encouraging motorhome users to contribute in exchange for facility access, but compliance remains minimal.
Burgess noted that constituents have reported the system faces extensive abuse, with no visible enforcement mechanisms to ensure even basic safety requirements are met.
“This isn’t just about fairness, it’s about safety and the long-term reputation of Highland tourism. People deserve to know that where they’re staying overnight is safe and fit for purpose,” she emphasised.
“Residents deserve to have their communities respected, not treated like a stopover. We need the Highland Council to take the lead in creating a system that works better for all.”
A Highland Council representative confirmed receipt of the MSP’s correspondence, stating: “We can confirm that the chief executive has received a letter from Arianne Burgess MSP. A response will be provided directly to Ms Burgess in due course.”
