REACTION continues to flood in to last week’s decision to drop the national park plans for Galloway.
Commenting on the move by the Scottish Government, Ramblers Scotland director Brendan Paddy said: “Scotland has waited for two decades for its third national park, so we are disappointed to see this major opportunity missed.
“A new Galloway National Park, if delivered well, had the potential to attract funding, promote responsible outdoor recreation and support people from all backgrounds to walk in this beautiful corner of Scotland.”
RSPB Scotland described it as “very disappointing news”.
A spokesman said: “A number of RSPB Scotland’s reserves sit within National Parks, and we believe that a third National Park in Scotland – whether in Galloway or elsewhere – should be a welcome proposal that would deliver positive outcomes for nature.
“Following the decision, RSPB Scotland is calling on the Scottish Government to swiftly come forward with alternative additional measures that clearly demonstrate its commitment to restoring nature and tackling the nature and climate emergency.”
Meanwhile, Karen Blackport, co-convenor of the Scottish Rewilding Alliance and chief executive of Bright Green Nature, said: “By scrapping plans for a Galloway National Park, the Scottish Government has yet again proved it cannot successfully plot a path to a wilder Scotland. This decision undermines efforts to restore nature, protect wildlife and support resilient rural communities.
“Amidst a climate and biodiversity crisis, Scotland needs leadership and vision – not another retreat from meaningful action.
“The Scottish Government must now use the Natural Environment Bill to begin a new phase for Scotland’s national parks – ensuring that everyone can benefit from wilder national parks that can be the jewels in the crown of Scotland’s nature recovery and its journey towards becoming a Rewilding Nation.”
