Outrage as family flout warnings to set up camp on protected Scottish beach

Outrage erupted among residents after a family decided to camp on a protected Scottish beach, blatantly disregarding local advice.

Despite clear warnings against driving on the sand, the group made their way to the stunning Outer Hebridean spot and set up their encampment.

Ignoring the concerns of residents, the family erected a safari-style tent complete with a picnic table on Northton beach. A photo circulating online shows the campers enjoying their seaside retreat, nestled close to the water’s edge.

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The brazen act sparked a fury on social media, with locals condemning the family for flouting the rules at the beach, which is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Peter Harris, who posted the images in the Isle of Harris Facebook Group, commented that when confronted, the campers seemed unfazed by the risks of setting up so near to the incoming tide.

His post read: “When asked why they said we are not doing anything wrong and there is no sign saying no camping.”

The incident has drawn thousands of heated responses online, with many expressing their anger over the apparent rule-breaking, according to Mail Online. While some comments mockingly anticipated the family’s belongings being claimed by the sea, others expressed concern for the safety of the children involved.

A dismayed local shared: “I looked at all the comments on Facebook, some funny etc but it seems they have kids sleeping in the tent as well! I am disgusted by them and hope they go home soon.”

The untouched area is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and according to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code (SOAC), driving a car onto the beach would mean that the stay wouldn’t be considered as wild camping.

*This article first appeared in 2023*