A plan to manage “horrendous” traffic chaos in a Highland glen has taken a step forward with the launch of a consultation.
The Nevis Landscape Partnership, Lochaber Environment Group and Shiel Buses are looking at the feasibility of a bus service to Glen Nevis in peak season.
Dealing with problem parking in the glen has become a daily occurrence, with bereaved families even complaining of tourist parking in a historic graveyard.
Last year, complaints about problem parking in the glen peaked when vehicles were moved to let emergency services through.
Shiraleen Macdonald, whose family members are buried in the Glen Nevis graveyard, said: “The family all met at the graveside on the anniversary of my sister’s death and we were not able to gather around the grave because of all the people who were parked there.
“Cars that had obviously been left for the day were blocking the entrance and some had even parked inside. It is not right. How would they feel if we parked at their loved one’s grave? They wouldn’t like it at all.
“People should have much more respect and not park inside the graveyard.
“I think that a bus service for people walking in the hills is a much better idea. I just hope that people will use it. ”
Climber Matthew Buller said: “I come a few times a year to climb the Ben and over the years it has got busier. Parking is really becoming a problem – but there often isn’t a choice. Having another option would be great, and even better if it could pick people up after the walk as well.”
A spokeswoman for the Nevis Landscape Partnership said: “Our aim is to maintain access to the area whilst reducing the high volume of car and campervan journeys up Glen Nevis and the associated congestion, pollution, parking and verge side erosion issues which are becoming an increasing problem.
“This bus service is one of a number of strategies to encourage people to access Glen Nevis without a vehicle, where possible.
“Other strategies currently being developed are improved walking and cycling routes, all-ability paths and e-bike share schemes to enable people to have a peaceful, stress-free, pollution-free experience in nature.”
The short survey includes questions about an hourly service between Fort William and Glen Nevis, what times in the morning the service would need to start and stopping points.
