Wick River Campsite has received recognition for its upgraded facilities and community impact following a visit by Maree Todd, Member of the Scottish Parliament for Caithness, Sutherland, and Ross. 

The Scottish National Party representative toured the site and praised its transformation into a destination that could attract more tourists to the region.

Managed by the Wick Development Trust, the campsite reopened in June 2022 as a community enterprise, with profits designated for local regeneration efforts. 

Since then, a three-year upgrading program has been underway, including a £450,000 energy-efficient facilities block officially opened in September and plans for a £350,000 reception building as the final phase.

Todd highlighted the project’s role in promoting tourism and supporting the community. 

“Since taking over the site and operating it as a not-for-profit community enterprise, the trust has successfully secured £450,000 in funding to develop an energy-efficient, net-zero toilet and facilities building,” she told John O’Groat Journal. 

Enhancements also include additional electric hook-up points, new fencing, a barbecue area, a children’s play park, and other amenities designed to create a family-friendly and accessible experience.

The upgrades have received funding from several sources, including the Scottish Government, Highland Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, RWE, and Dounreay. 

The campsite has also garnered accolades, winning Social Enterprise of the Year at the Highland Third Sector Interface awards and the Community Business of the Year award from the Caithness Chamber of Commerce.

Sarah Lamb, Wick Development Trust’s projects manager, reported an increase in visitor numbers and longer stays since the new facilities opened.

“Comparing this year’s figures to last year’s, we’ve seen a notable rise in the number of people staying more than one night,” she said.

The campsite’s improvements have also drawn positive feedback from visitors, with some describing it as “the best on the NC500,” according to Alistair Jack, director of the Wick Development Trust.