West Beach Motorhome Stopover Project
History
In 2017-18 The Findhorn Village Conservation Company (TFVCC) received numerous complaints regarding the increase of motor homes/camper vans parking on the narrow front road in Findhorn, causing an obstruction to traffic, particularly buses, emergency vehicles and delivery lorries. This also created a Health and Safety issues, with cars parking on the pavement, making it difficult for wheelchair and buggies to pass safely.
The nearest site that facilitated motorhomes/campvans was the Findhorn Bay Caravan Site. Due to the volume of motorhomes/campervans there was an increase in overnight stays either on the road or going to the beach car parks. The increase in motorhome owners visiting the area is welcome as it has a positive impact on the economy of the village and local businesses.
In 2018 TFVCC took the decision to allow motorhomes to park overnight in the west beach car park. Prior to the removal of the no overnight parking signs and erection of signage and honesty boxes TFVCC consulted with Scottish Police, Scottish Fire Service and Moray Council. TFVCC also worked closely with Findhorn and Kinloss Community Council to ensure they were kept informed at all times.
The Project
In October 2020 TFVCC was granted planning permission from Moray Council to establish a motorhome stopover at the West Beach Car Park. In December 2020 a small working group was formed to develop the motorhome stopover area. In January 2021 TFVCC was award grant funding from Highland and Islands Enterprise to develop the west beach car park. Work started in February 2021 and the motorhome stopover was available to motorhomes on a first come basis in April 2021.
Funding was also granted from the Scottish Government’s Adapt & Thrive fund, which has supported the provision of an online booking system and Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) barrier for access to the motorhome area. This enables TFVCC to manage the number of motorhomes and length of stay in line with the Moray Council planning permission. Maximum of 21 motorhomes per night with a maximum stay of 2 nights. By the end of June 2021 there will be the facility for chemical toilet waste disposal and fresh water.
This project has been made possible through the work of volunteers and contractor Aaron’s Groundworks who have developed a motorhome stopover area that provides our visitors with a beautiful place to spend the night to enjoy Findhorn.
This project has been supported by:
Highlands and Islands Enterprise Community Led Tourism Infrastructure Fund
Scottish Government Adapt & Thrive Programme