Minister says ‘No’

National Park Decision is a Big Loss for Communities and Nature

Supporters of a National Park are hugely disappointed that Scottish Government has abandoned its commitment to creating a new National Park in Galloway, South and East Ayrshire.

The Galloway National Park Association (GNPA) believes a National Park would have brought major investment to protect and enhance nature and the environment, attract sustainable jobs and businesses, and revive communities in economic decline.

Rob Lucas, chair of GNPA, said: “This is a big loss for our countryside and wildlife, for everyone living in the region and for our entire country.

“Our disappointment is not just for the loss of a National Park, but for the whole future of Galloway which has been badly let down once again.

“Galloway and its fragile environment, communities, and economy face huge challenges that must be overcome.

“After years of neglect and decline it must now fall to those who opposed a National Park to address these issues and to do so without the certainty and money the Park would have brought.

“Although the Minister has decided not to proceed, it is clear that the spotlight has rightly been shone on Galloway which is clearly ‘on the map’ for now at least.

“We hope that any new measures put forward, although no substitute for a National Park, will enable Galloway to come together and collectively develop a brighter future for this very special area.”