Proposed changes to parking at West Bay Car Park in Mallaig must be scrapped to protect the viability of Small Isles communities, according to Highlands and Islands MSP Emma Roddick. The Highland Council has brought forward a proposal to limit parking at the site to twenty-four hours, a move that has sparked significant concern among locals and visitors.
The car park is currently a go-to for those travelling to the Small Isles who wish to avoid bringing private cars onto the islands, contractors undertaking work in these communities, and island residents attending mainland commitments. Ms Roddick has written to the Council to express her clear opposition to the plans, following representations from constituents in the Isle of Eigg.
Speaking after raising the matter with the Highland Council, Ms Roddick said:
“I have listened to the concerns of residents in Eigg and across the Small Isles who are rightly worried about the impact these parking restrictions would have on their daily lives and businesses. Having a long-stay car park in Mallaig supports the sustainability of our island communities; it is a car park that I make use of myself when I hold surgeries locally.
“We should be encouraging people to leave their cars on the mainland when they visit the Small Isles, not turning them away altogether. I am committed to standing up for my constituents on this issue and have made it very clear to the Council that this long-stay option must remain. It is essential for the Highland Council to recognise the unique needs of the Highlands and Islands and ensure that local infrastructure supports, rather than hinders, our remote communities.
“I have been encouraging local residents to make their voices heard through objections to the proposal and added my own name to those pushing back.”
Ms Roddick has requested background information on the proposal and remains in contact with local residents to ensure their voices are heard as the situation develops. Objections should be made in writing to parking@highland.gov.uk by the end of today.
