Communities invited to have their say on Scottish Government’s national park plans

By Aileen Maclennan

People in Argyll and Bute will have the opportunity to comment on the Scottish Government’s plans to establish at least one new National Park in Scotland by 2026.

There are currently two National Parks in Scotland: Cairngorm National Park and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, part of which sits within the Argyll and Bute boundary.

However, the Scottish Government would like to introduce a new park(s) and is currently inviting expressions of interest from local communities before it opens the formal nomination process later in the year.

Chair of the Argyll and Bute Council Planning, Protective Services and Licensing Committee, which currently covers Helensburgh, Cardross, Rhu and the Peninsula, Councillor Kieron Green, pictured right, said: “Raising awareness of the upcoming nomination process now gives local communities the necessary time to put forward any proposals they may have.

“The council will consider if it wishes to support any proposals at the appropriate time. The Scottish Government would then examine submissions prior to further consultation on areas selected to progress.”

You can find further information about the assessment process and registration at www.gov.scot/news/next-steps-for-national-parks-in-scotland/

Read more about the role of new National Parks and designation process at www.nature.scot/professional-advice/protected-areas-and-species/protected-areas/national-designations/national-park