National park nominations: A great step forward for scotland
The announcement that five areas are seeking to become Scotland’s new National Park represents a pivotal moment in protecting and restoring Scotland’s natural landscapes, say the Scottish Greens.
Galloway, Lochaber, Loch Awe, the Scottish Borders and Tay Forest all submitted applications before yesterday’s deadline. The applications will now be appraised, with a preferred site expected to be identified in the summer.
The delivery of a new National Park was a key pledge in the Bute House Agreement that brought the Scottish Greens into Government.
Rural affairs spokesperson Ariane Burgess MSP said: “This is a great step forward for Scotland. We will soon see the creation of our first new National Park since the Cairngorms and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs were founded over 20 years ago. It’s a pivotal moment in our transition to a green economy.
“It’s really exciting to see so many excellent applications, each showcasing unique aspects of Scotland’s iconic landscapes, ecological diversity and cultural history.
“National Park status brings a huge range of benefits to local areas, including resources and protections for the park and the local economies and communities who live in and around them.
“The Cairngorms and Loch Lomond & the Trossachs have some of our most iconic nature and landscapes. They are recognised around the world for their outstanding beauty, and National Park status has seen their economies boosted, businesses supported and local communities engaged in shaping their own future. I want the same for Scotland’s next National Park.”