Local residents have the opportunity to shape the future of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park.

The organisation is looking for five new board members to join its Authority Board, which is responsible for making important decisions on matters such as planning and climate action.

Nominations for the positions are open from today (May, 12) to anyone over the age of 21 who lives in the Park’s boundaries or has the written support of 10 people who do.

Elections will take place this summer, with all registered voters who live in the National Park receiving a postal ballot in June. The winners will then be announced at an election count at the National Park Headquarters in Balloch on Thursday, July 7.

Convenor of the National Park Authority Board, James Stuart, said: “We need people’s help to shape the future of our National Park.

“Twenty years ago, Scotland’s first National Park was designated here and now we are urging people to take part in our next chapter by standing to be part of our Board or voting for their preferred candidate on 7th July.”

Over the years, the National Park Authority has been increasing its focus on tackling the climate emergency. To help meet this challenge, Mr Stuart said the organisation needs a broad range of people, perspectives and skills on its Board.

He explained: “This is a flexible and rewarding role and we are especially encouraging nominations from people who will contribute to the diversity of our Board, to ensure our work is representative of Scotland and everyone who has a connection to this iconic National Park.”

The National Park is split into five electoral wards and one board member will be elected in each ward and play a key role working within the local community.

There will be an induction process to support board members in the new role as well as hybrid meetings to work around family and work commitments.

Current board member, Heather Reid, said: “Joining the Board is a fantastic way to help influence priorities in the local area. Since joining the Board, I’ve been involved in work around climate targets and I’ve found it incredibly rewarding to work with young people from the area to champion their voices in Board decision-making.

She added: “Everyone has something to offer, even if you don’t think you are traditional Board member material, and you will get all the support you need to carry out Board duties.”

If you are interested in standing as a candidate you can collect a nomination pack from National Park HQ in Balloch or Stirling Council office.

Alternatively, you can download one here: Local Board Member Elections 2022 - #LetsDoNetZero -Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park (lochlomond-trossachs.org)