The North Coast 500 route defined and promoted since 2015, has created significant changes to the lives of people living within the communities it passes through. However, No public engagement or conversations were instigated at the time of its launch till the present day.

The proposal is to suspend the promotional work of NC500 and ask that the organisations responsible (NC500 ltd,VisitScotland and North Highland Initiative) organise, as a matter of urgency, a forum to discuss the future of the NC500.

Detailed proposals for community consultation need to include; what measures are taken to manage the increased tourist numbers?; economic and environmental impact assessments, what is the long term plan for how infrastructure will be maintained and improved? etc. Consultation events through the various council wards should allow for proper community feedback to allow members of the public a view.

Following a consultation, Perhaps the question could be asked: Do you want the NC500 ltd to continue to promote and advertise the scenic route?  Depending on the outcome to this, presentation to the Scottish Government would be made which impliment the views of the communities.