Consultation launched on Scotland’s proposed new National Park

People are being urged to have their say on a proposal to create a new national park in Scotland.

NatureScot has launched a statutory consultation on whether a new park should be established in Galloway and parts of South and East Ayrshire.

The consultation will consider details such as the boundaries of the park and the make up of its board as well as gauge opinion on the proposal and alternatives.

The formal consultation will run until February 14 next year and is accessible on the NatureScot website in print, audio and Gaelic versions.

During the second half of November, a consultation leaflet will also be distributed to 52,000 households and businesses within the proposed area.

Public events will also be happening across the area in the coming weeks to encourage people to share their thoughts and opinions on the subject.

There will be sessions within each event asking for responses on a variety of topics as well as interactive boards and spaces and opportunities to leave anonymous feedback.

NatureScot will then report the views expressed by all those who engage in the consultation process to Scottish ministers in the spring next year.

The Scottish Government will ultimately take the decision on whether to establish the proposed Galloway National Park.

NatureScot head of people and places, Pete Rawcliffe, said: “A new National Park in Galloway is still a proposal and not a done deal, and this is an opportunity for anyone with an interest in the proposal to have their voice heard.

“We are committed to ensuring every aspect of this is fair, transparent and as inclusive as possible.

“We need the communities who live and work across the south west of Scotland to take part in this consultation, and tell us what matters to them in order to make sure our advice to government is a fair reflection of the views held in their area.

“Our staff who work locally and nationally appreciate the thoughts and ideas that so many residents, communities, businesses, public bodies and other interested parties have contributed so far.

“This vital input, alongside our fieldwork, has helped shape the options we are now consulting on and we’re looking forward to seeing everyone’s ideas and feedback.”

Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon said: “It is vitally important that we hear from people living and working in the area and that the people of Galloway and South and East Ayrshire have the opportunity to discuss the issues and properly consider the proposal, including whether people want a National Park in their area and, if so, what the area, functions, powers and governance arrangements should be.

“As I confirmed last week, the consultation will be extended from 12 weeks to 14 weeks to account for the consultation running over Christmas and New Year when people will understandably be busy with other things.

“I recognise the significant public interest in this proposal and am aware that there is both support and opposition.

“Everyone’s views will be listened to and taken into account and I would encourage everyone with an interest to engage with the consultation process in a constructive and respectful way.”