The launch of the first stage in NatureScot’s public engagement process for a new National Park in Galloway has now opened.
An online portal is now open, giving clear information about the process, the timetable and how the community across the region can get involved.
Galloway was chosen from among five competing areas as the Scottish Governments preferred location for what would be the third National Park in Scotland.
The National Park bid has been made jointly by the Galloway National Park Association (GNPA) and the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere Partnership.
They are urging all the public, and organisations across the area to take part in the consultation and ensure the fullest possible range of voices is heard.
Sandra Mcdowall, Vice Chair of GNPA, said: “Local democracy is hugely important and we want everyone to get involved and have their say.”
During the public consultation NatureScot will host platforms for digital engagement as well as meetings and drop-in sessions at community hubs across Dumfries & Galloway, East Ayrshire and South Ayrshire.
This will give all residents, organisations, businesses and other interested groups the opportunity to participate in shaping how a possible Galloway National Park would function and the powers it would have.
The public consultation will run through November to the end of January and NatureScot, as Reporter, will submit their findings to Ministers at the end of April next year.
John Thomson, Acting Chair of the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere Partnership, said: “Galloway’s designation as a UNESCO Biosphere testifies not only to the importance of its natural and cultural heritage but also to its potential as a place where local communities can chart a path to a better and more sustainable future.
There is a facebook group of concerned public and business titled ‘No Galloway National Park’ If you wish to find out more, or voice your opinion, you can join the page by clicking HERE
The NatureScot portal is at https://www.nature.scot/professional-advice/protected-areas-and-species/protected-areas/national-designations/national-parks.
Information about the reporting process can be seen here.
It explains:
- the plan
- the process
- the different phases of work
- how and when people can find out more
- how and when they can take part in the consultation.
Anyone wishing to contact NatureScot directly with regard to the Galloway National Park proposal, including to request a meeting for a local community group or other organisation, is invited to email directly via [email protected].
