Hansard

I thank Murdo Fraser for securing the debate, and Ramblers Scotland and Mountaineering Scotland for the helpful briefings that they have provided.

It is important to recognise that although members have described awful reports of dirty camping, the behaviour of the vast majority of campers is responsible. Wild camping and roadside camping are lawful practices, provided that they are carried out responsibly, and I welcome the actions of the many campers who abide by the “leave no trace” ethos of the outdoor access code. It is not the case that informal camping in itself is disrespectful or antisocial, but the pollution and the debris that so-called dirty campers are creating is risking the reputation of the many responsible campers.

Camping is an opportunity to get out and see the natural beauty of Scotland and to stay in remote and rural places in an affordable way. It is also an opportunity for rural businesses and communities to welcome visitors and showcase what their local area has to offer. It brings economic benefits, as well as having the positive health impacts that are associated with being in the outdoors.

In the summer in Scotland, it can be difficult to find official places to camp, especially on the rare occasions on which the sun comes out, and doing so often requires forward planning, which does not necessarily fit in with the impulse to throw everything into a bag or the back of a car and head off. However, this year, the closure of many campsites and the restrictions on the use of other accommodation has resulted in an increase in the number of people who are camping off site and, unfortunately, an increase in so-called dirty camping.

The reasons behind that are various. Restrictions on overseas travel, reductions in household income, concerns about travelling and staying in large groups, and the cancellation of festivals and other events have all contributed to an increase in the number of people who are looking to camp, many of whom are inexperienced in doing so. To that end, it is vital that the responsibilities that we all have when enjoying access to the outdoors are communicated clearly. Many members have talked about the importance of education. While all campers have a responsibility to clean up and dispose of litter and debris, such as barbecues and equipment, that applies even more so when they are away from designated facilities.

Dirty camping in rural locations is not a new phenomenon. Outdoor groups have previously highlighted its impact on reservoirs, woodlands and beaches, and I understand that the Public Petitions Committee has looked at the issue. In the past, measures such as camping restrictions and permit schemes have been introduced in some locations, but they have had limited success, with activity often just being displaced to other areas, as Murdo Fraser said. Police Scotland has enforcement powers in relation to antisocial behaviour and threatening or aggressive behaviour, but we all recognise that its resources are limited and that the police cannot be the only tool in addressing the problem.

Related issues stem from pressure on local government funding and the financial decisions that are being taken at a local level as a result. Closure of public toilets, limited car parking and path networks, and reduced litter collections, warden and ranger services all follow from council underfunding and are leaving some communities without the infrastructure that would help to alleviate some of the negative impacts that are being highlighted in the debate. We should all be better at supporting the delivery of infrastructure that benefits campers and the wider access to the outdoors, while recognising the wider benefits that it can bring to mental and physical wellbeing, as well as the economic benefits for rural communities.

I welcome the actions taken by Perth and Kinross Council. By working across agencies and involving Police Scotland, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, as well as local communities, the focus is on communicating the importance of respectful and responsible behaviour. I would like to see such an approach being adopted more widely so that a clear message is sent out across the country about the importance of leaving no trace.

I welcome the news that the cabinet secretary will discuss the issue at a meeting next week with the national parks and others. I hope that some positive action comes from that.

As we continue to move through the stages of the pandemic, we are more than ever aware of the importance and value of getting outside to experience the nature and scenery that Scotland has to offer. We need to ensure that responsible and respectful access means that it can continue to be enjoyed by all.