Natural heritage agency NatureScot is running an online consultation until mid-February 2025 to seek views about the new national park for Galloway (including parts of South and East Ayrshire), including about its boundary, powers and how it should be run.
Those interested in participating in the detailed survey can click here.
Ramblers Scotland said it believes that the national park – if delivered well – has the potential to improve walking opportunities, by improving path networks and protecting access rights; enrich nature, from seashore to mountain summits; boost local jobs and businesses; and expand public transport and active travel links.
Ramblers Scotland said it believes national park status would help better support visitors – with facilities such as toilets, camping areas, litter collection and information – and would ease pressures upon sensitive habitats and local communities.
Ramblers Scotland director Brendan Paddy said: “Scotland has waited a long time for its third national park and Galloway is an exciting choice, with huge potential for this to be a win-win for both locals and visitors.
“Experience shows that national parks are often better placed than other areas to attract vital funding, to promote outdoor recreation and to support more people – from all backgrounds – to responsibly enjoy walking and nature.
“While Ramblers Scotland supports the overall plan, we believe that walkers will only see the benefits if the national park is delivered effectively. So, I urge walkers and other outdoor enthusiasts to engage with the proposals, and to argue for the many benefits for outdoor recreation during this important consultation phase.”
NatureScot’s public consultation will also include drop-in sessions in Dumfries & Galloway, East Ayrshire and South Ayrshire.
This summer, the Scottish Government named Galloway as its preferred location for Scotland’s third national park, to follow in the footsteps of Cairngorms National Park and Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. Galloway topped a shortlist of five bids submitted by local groups in scenic areas.
