Forest Enterprise postpones Glen Affric parking charges

Forest Enterprise has postponed the introduction of controversial new parking charges at all its car parks in Glen Affric following pressure from walkers and local businesses. The Mountaineering Countil of Scotland (MCofS) sent a strongly worded letter to Forest Enterprise and kick started a media campaign that has included local residents and tourism businesses. It is understood that Forest Enterprise now intends to consult on the proposed charges which are intended to include car parks at Loch Affric, Dog Falls and nearby Plodda Falls. The parking meters have been in place for a number of months at the Glen Affric car parks but have not yet been made operational.

Responding to the latest development the MCofS said, “We hope that the consultation process will be a real and genuine effort to engage, rather than simply a means to an end, which results in the plan to impose charging going ahead regardless.”

David Gibson, MCofS Chief Officer said, “We are not against voluntary car parking charges where there is evidence that the funds will be used to support footpath or environmental work. Those criteria do not appear to be relevant in this case. There is simply no alternative parking place and we are also concerned at the security implications for someone who wishes to park their vehicle for more than one day and who is required by FCS to display a parking ticket which advertises their return date.”

Glen Affric is considered by many to be a national treasure and one of Scotland’s finest glens. There is only one car park for those who approach from the eastern end of the glen and many people leave their vehicles there for several days at a time to access the glen, mountains and the youth hostel at Alltbeithe.

Forest Enterprise recently introduced parking charges at many of its coastal car parks in Moray including at Roseisle which is very popular with local families as well as walkers. The MCofS also said that it understands that a number of complaints have been raised regarding the proposed imposition of car parking charges at Forest Enterprise car parks in the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. Dave Gibson said, “Whilst we don’t know for sure, Forest Enterprise plans appear to be part of a national strategy to introduce car parking charges across Scotland.”