Question reference: S6W-23580
- Asked by: Pam Gosal, MSP for West Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party
- Date lodged: 5 December 2023
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Current status: Answered by Lorna Slater on 19 December 2023
Question
To ask the Scottish Government whether it will provide an update on the establishment of new national parks.
Answer
On 12 October 2023, I announced the start of the nominations process and invited communities and organisations across the country to develop and submit their proposals for their area to become Scotland’s next National Park. Nominations are due to be submitted by 29 February 2024.
The Scottish Government is aware of at least 10 local groups who are actively engaging with their communities and developing proposals for a new National Park in their area.
Detailed guidance on the nomination and appraisal process for new National Parks has been published, and support is being made available to groups that are exploring or developing a proposal.
In Spring 2024 all nominations received by the deadline will be appraised against the criteria set out in the appraisal framework. This will inform the decision on which area or areas should go forward for designation as a new National Park.
In Summer 2024 the Scottish Government will commission a reporter to carry out a detailed investigation into the area or areas selected to become a new National Park. Based on the outcome of that investigation, secondary legislation is expected to be laid before the Parliament in order to designate at least one new National Park by 2026.