Public consultation on national park plan
MSP urges local people to get involved with project
A public consultation on perceived priorities for the next five years of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park is under way.
The National Park Partnership Plan 2018- 2023 has opened a 12- week consultation, and aims to widen the park’s social, environmental, cultural and economic benefits.
The consultation on the park, including Breadalbane and covering much of Highland Perthshire, will run until Monday, July 3.
The draft plan lists the park’s main priorities as conservation and land management , visitor experience and rural development.
It also includes moves to attract and retain skilled young people, and encourage people of all abilities to enjoy the outdoors.
James Stuart, the national park’s recently- appointed convener, said: “The national park is a truly special place and this plan proposes how we along with a wide range of other organisations, can work together over the next five years to look after, enhance and make the most of it.
“By working in collaboration with all of our partners we can achieve a much greater impact.”
Gordon Watson, the chief executive of the park, added: “We want to build on that by working closely with our partners to broaden that range of opportunities, whether it’s through training, volunteering, modern apprenticeships and employment so that young people growing up in the national park aren’t missing out on the opportunities that those living in more urban areas have access to.
“We are confident that this along with measures to address the lack of affordable housing options and efforts to protect and enhance local services and infrastructure, will ensure a bright future for young people living and working within the national park.”
Roseanna Cunningham, MSP for Perthshire South and Kinross-shire, urged people to get involved.
She said: “Part of my constituency - St Fillans and the western end of Loch Earn - lies within the National Park and I know that many more of my constituents will be frequent visitors, whether passing through or accessing what this wonderful resource has to offer.
“Our national parks seek to protect, conserve and showcase the very best of the scenery and natural heritage that our country is famous for and to develop the potential in the area to generate economic growth and sustainable business activity.
“Public input is welcomed as the plan for the upcoming five years is finalised and I would encourage all those with an interest in the future development of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park to examine the draft plan and engage with the consultation process.”