Thousands of visitors sign NC500 pledge for 'positive behaviours' in Highlands

AROUND 3000 people have signed a newly launched visitor pledge, set up by North Coast 500 Ltd, to promote "respectful and sustainable tourism" during their visit to the Highlands.

The organisation behind the promotion of the coastal route introduced the visitor pledge in October last year.

It asks visitors to:

• leave no trace by disposing of waste responsibly
• park only in dedicated parking areas during the day and overnight
• prioritise shopping in local businesses
• follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code
• keep noise levels low
• adhere to all road signs and speed limits
• drive carefully and considerately and yield to local traffic, especially on single-track roads

The full pledge can be read here.

Around 93% of people who signed the pledge have taken part in some sort of "extra mile" task.

So far, 13% took part in beach cleans, 12% donated to local foodbanks or local charity boxes, 91% prioritised local businesses and 83% shared responsible travel tips either in person or on social media.

The pledge, developed in consultation with residents and businesses along the route, invites visitors to commit to respectful and sustainable tourism during their visit, helping to address the challenges facing local communities as a result of tourism.

David Richardson, development manager at North Coast 500 Ltd, said: “It’s been really encouraging to see just how many people want to do the right thing. The pledge isn’t about rules or restrictions — it’s about giving people the opportunity to understand the place they’re visiting and how they can help look after it.

"The early response shows that visitors genuinely care, and that’s a really positive foundation to build on. 

“We know tourism brings both benefits and challenges, and while there’s no single solution, what we’re seeing is a willingness from visitors to be part of the answer.

A lighthouse by Duncansby Stacks, a collection of sea stacks that jut out of the North Sea (Image: Unsplash) "The pledge helps to start those conversations and encourage more conscious choices, which is a step in the right direction for everyone.”

The pledge is supported by a digital platform to provide tourists with educational resources to help them explore the Highlands responsibly.

The NC500 was established more than a decade ago, and while it brings many benefits for businesses on the route, a lot of locals in the Highlands claim that it has led to dangerous driving and anti-social behaviour.