People urged to nominate new national park

A Scottish Minister urged communities across Scotland to consider whether their local area could be designated as the country’s next national park during a trip to Loch Lomond and The Trossachs.

Minister for Green Skills, Circular Economy and Biodiversity Lorna Slater said this week that existing national parks played an important role in tackling the biodiversity and climate crises, whilst also supporting local communities, businesses and visitors.

She added:“last year we consulted widely on the future of national parks in Scotland, and there was broad support for our commitment to create at least one new park by 2026.”

Chief executive of LLTNPA Gordon Watson said:“national parks have a vital role to play in securing a more sustainable future for Scotland. They are unique places where we can maximise the benefits that can be provided for nature, climate and people. Scotland has set ambitious targets to reach Net Zero and to restore biodiversity by 2045.

“If we are to reach those targets, urgent, bold action is required and Scotland’s existing - and any new National Parks can make a substantial contribution.”

Individuals, groups or organisations considering making a proposal can now register early interest.

Nominations will officially open later this year, once the appraisal framework has been finalised. The government has committed to designating at least one new national park in Scotland by Spring 2026. A draft appraisal framework with broad selection criteria for new national parks has also been published for consultation. See https://www.gov. scot/isbn/9781805258391 and https:// www.gov.scot/isbn/9781805258384 for more details.