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Maree Todd contacts Police Scotland about speeding drivers on North Coast 500 route


By Gordon Calder

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A NORTH MSP has contacted Police Scotland about speeding vehicles on a popular tourist route and claims the behaviour of some drivers is "reckless."

Maree Todd, who represents the Caithness, Sutherland and Ross constituency in the Scottish Parliament, said: "Over recent weeks, I have been contacted by several constituents concerned over the speed of vehicles travelling through rural villages situated along the North Coast 500 route.

"I am also aware from previous tourist seasons, and from driving the route regularly myself, that there is a trend in drivers attempting to complete the route within a certain period of time, resulting in dangerous and careless driving.

"Driving through villages at speed, risking the lives of pedestrians and other road users is reckless and those who do so should be reported to the police."

Maree Todd says behaviour of some drivers on the NC500 is 'reckless'
Maree Todd says behaviour of some drivers on the NC500 is 'reckless'

The SNP MSP added: "I’m eager to find out what Police Scotland is doing now, ahead of the tourist season, to monitor the speed of vehicles and improve drivers' awareness.

"While we welcome tourists to come and enjoy the scenic route, it’s important that drivers are cautious and aware of the dangers of driving on country roads. I would encourage all visitors driving the route to familiarise themselves with the Highway Code ahead of their drive.

"I look forward to receiving an update from Police Scotland."

The North Coast 500, also known as the NC 500, is a 516-mile scenic route around the north coast of Scotland, starting and ending at Inverness Castle. The route was launched in 2015 and links many features in the north Highlands in one touring route. It goes west from Inverness up to Durness and along the coast to Thurso and takes in the Castle of Mey, John O' Groats and Wick before heading east back to the Highland capital.

The route has increased visitor numbers to the area and brought economic benefits but the rise in traffic has also led to concern about speeding vehicles, damage to the roads and the environmental impact.

In 2015, the route was named fifth in the Top Five Coastal Routes in the World listing by Now Travel Magazine. It has been described as Scotland's Route 66.


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