The Highland Council has approved mandatory parking charges at several popular visitor locations across Lochaber.

The decision was made during a meeting of the Lochaber Area Committee on Monday 11 May.

The new charging measures will apply at Camusdarach Beach, the Nevis Centre in Fort William, Glen Etive Road End, Glen Nevis Road End and Achintee Road End.

The council said the new pay and display system is intended to help manage vehicle turnover, improve access to parking and generate income for local projects.

The measures will also prohibit overnight parking between 10pm and 8am at the affected sites.

An exception applies at the Nevis Centre car park where motorhomes will not be permitted.

The council said the overnight parking restrictions were introduced following community concerns about car parks being used as informal campsites resulting in littering and waste issues.

Kate Willis, Chair of the Lochaber Area Committee, said:

“The mandatory parking charges will enable the Council to formally regulate the use of Car Parks at key visitor hotspots, by introducing operational restrictions that support effective enforcement and improve day to day management.

“We know how popular these key locations are in peak season, and the introduction of regulated parking will also legally prevent overnight parking for motorhomes.

“I particularly welcome that 50% of Nett Highland Council parking income at designated sites will be returned to the Lochaber area to support local projects.”

West Bay car park in Mallaig will remain invitation to pay for now with further proposals expected at a later date.

The council also confirmed that free parking periods will remain available at some locations including up to one hour free at Camusdarach Beach and 15 minutes at the Nevis Centre car park.

Lochaber season tickets will also continue to offer reduced rates for regular users across most Highland Council car parks in the area.

Subject to legal approval and installation of pay and display machines, the mandatory charges are expected to begin during June or July 2026.