Plan for hundreds of new spaces to ease Ben Nevis parking woes

A car park used by visitors to Ben Nevis could be extended under plans to tackle problem roadside parking.

About 40,000 people visit the North Face car park every year, and owner Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) has been trying to ease congestion at the site.

The car park provides access to a path leading to a viewpoint below Ben Nevis's North Face and the mountain Càrn Mòr Dearg, and also trails through surrounding forestry.

Under FLS's plan, the existing car park would be increased from about 38 to 41 spaces and two new ones would be created - one for up to 57 vehicles and the other for 211.

An area at the top end of the existing car park would be earmarked for a future toilet block.

Highland Council planning officials have recommended councillors approve the proposals at a meeting next week.

The North Face car park, near Torlundy, was originally built primarily for mountaineers.

But it has become popular with walkers, cyclists, runners and horse riders using forest trails.

The largest of the two proposed new car parks would be split into two sections.

Access to one of the areas would be controlled by a gate, and it would be opened when more parking spaces were needed.

Five objections have been lodged against the plans.

The objectors include Fort William Inverlochy and Torlundy Community Council, which has concerns about a lack of consultation with local residents and an impact on wildlife.

It is also worried car park visitors are using nearby woodland as a toilet.