Way forward for Campervans/ Caravans

12 February, 2010 - 12:00 — admin

Way forward for Campervans/ Caravans

A positive approach was taken at the meeting in Northbay last Tuesday with regard to the potential influx of campervans this summer..
 
One commercial site has reached the planning stage and hopes, if successful, to be ready before Easter, There are opportunities for individual crofters to have up to 3 campervans/caravans on their crofts.
 
There is funding available for community development of 50% of costs up to £20,000 which townships who are interested could apply for, and obviously there is potential for other business developments in other parts of the island.
 
How camping itself is managed and controlled is a different matter and there are concerns about the impact of campers in environmentally sensitive areas especially with regard to toilets, water, and other issues such as waste disposal which have to be dealt with.
 
With the areas at the Traigh Mhor now closed off to vehicles, then there will be an impact elsewhere on the island, and this was the main issue which was discussed during the meeting.
 
The message however, is that as an island community, we extend a welcome to visitors, and it is up to us as a community, to ensure that our concerns are addressed and managed.
 
Leaflets, information posters, website information are being drawn up, and if there is anyone who is considering offering either space on their croft or a community group or township making space available, please contact us on barra.news@vabv.org.uk to be included in any advertising material published.