Five motorhome and caravan stopover points suggested for Moray
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Five new stopover points in Moray for caravans and motorhomes are amongst a series of proposals scheduled to be discussed on Wednesday.
Also amongst the proposals, which are designed to make the region more attractive to visitors, are new seagull-proof litter bins.
The ideas are being brought before the council's next budget meeting on March 3 by Conservative councillors in tandem with the Moray Alliance Group (MAG), which is made up by three Independents and one Labour councillor.
Also included is the hiring of extra staff to service the five caravan stopover sites which are proposed for Burghead, Craigellachie, Portknockie, Ballindalloch and Portgordon.
These staff would also look after public toilets and carry out extra litter picking.
In addition, the proposals include more chemical waste disposal points, plus the hiring of portaloos for popular visitor locations in Moray that don't currently have access to pubic toilets.
Tim Eagle, the leader of the Conservative group, claims the proposals would cost a lump sum of £170,000, plus another £85,000 each year afterwards.
Cllr Eagle (Buckie, Conservative) said: "Last year we welcomed many tourists to Moray but there were some issues.
"Communities reported problems with litter, bins overflowing and caravans disposing of toilet waste on rural roads.
"With our hospitality sector having been through a very rough period it is vital that we support them as much as possible – and tourism plays a major part in that.
"That is why this year we recognise the importance of building our tourism offer across Moray, ensuring that we are an open and welcoming location whilst not negatively impacting on communities.
"Our plans will see a network of stopover points and toilet waste disposal points built across Moray, with more planned for the future.
"This will be coupled with increased spending on staff, toilets and bins to ensure we are prepared for whatever this summer and those to come look like.
"Tourism already sustains many jobs and businesses and has the potential to provide more jobs in the future.
"It is vital the council play a leading part in making sure Moray is ready."
Derek Ross (Speyside/Glenlivet, Independent) is the leader of the councillors who comprise MAG.
He said: "As a Speyside councillor I have spoken to many local people who recognise the importance of tourism but want to ensure that across Moray we have the facilities in place to support those choosing to holiday in this area.
"Shutting public toilets has never sat well with me.
"These are vital facilities which help both local people and tourists and we must make sure that we provide what is needed moving forward.
"This is just the beginning as we put in place the first projects and staff to work towards building a strong tourism offer across Moray."
