A NATIONAL park for Galloway is not yet a ‘done deal’.
That was the message from the area’s MSP after he held ‘informative’ discussions with senior officials from NatureScot on Monday.
Galloway and West Dumfries MSP Finlay Carson has described the meeting as “highly productive”.
During the talks with chief executive Francesca Osowska and her team of Eileen Stuart, and Peter Rawcliffe, they outlined their role and approach in determining whether Galloway will be designated as Scotland’s Third National Park.
Mr Carson said afterwards: “I welcome confirmation that the decision to designate Galloway as a National Park is not simply a box-ticking exercise and the final report could recommend that another route should be taken to deliver what Galloway needs.
“To ensure that is the case, every effort must be made to encourage everyone to have their say.
“There is a misconception already that the National Park status for Galloway is already a done deal. But I have been assured by NatureScot that this is definitely not the case.
“The final decision, which is still some way down the road, will be based on the best evidence and will be weighed up by NatureScot before it sends its report to Scottish Government Ministers.”
He added: “What has also been stated is that any potential proposal for a National Park in Galloway would need to be unique to meet the best interests of the people and businesses who live and work there.
“The pros and cons will be considered carefully along with local opinion.”
And he stressed the importance of local people, organisations, the farming community, tourism and other business sectors making their opinions known.
“NatureScot reinforced its commitment to ensure that the consultation will be open, transparent and inclusive which is what I wanted to hear,” he said.
Meanwhile, NatureScot’s chief executive has explained that a number of options will be examined in the coming months, saying “all things are on the table at the moment.”
She confirmed a “robust programme” will be carried out before a conclusion is formed.
Ms Osowska said: “What we want is informed debate and that everyone is well advised before coming to their own conclusion.”
Further details setting out NatureScot approach to the consultation with stakeholders, local communities, businesses, elected members and individuals is to be released this week.
