TWENTY years since Loch Lomond became part of Scotland's first National Park, the head of the park authority is encouraging people in other areas to put forward their proposals to follow in the area's footsteps.

The Scottish Government - which has promised to designate at least one new national park by 2026 - launched a call for 'expressions of interest' from groups across the country earlier this week, with the minister concerned, Lorna Slater, visiting the bonnie banks to kick-start the process.

Gordon Watson, chief executive of the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority, says he hopes that people across the country will put forward their idea for where the next national park should be located as the Scottish Government looks to designate an area by 2026.

He said: “National Parks have a vital role to play in securing a more sustainable future for Scotland. They are unique places where we can maximise the benefits that can be provided for nature, climate and people.

“Scotland has set ambitious targets to reach net zero and to restore biodiversity by 2045.

“If we are to reach those targets, urgent, bold action is required and Scotland’s existing - and any new - national parks can make a substantial contribution.

“Through scaling up our efforts to lock-in carbon in the landscape, restore nature at scale and enable a greener low-emission economy, we can, together, help Scotland make significant progress towards these commitments.”

Individuals, groups and organisations can register their early interest proposals now before nominations officially open later this year.

 

Ms Slater, the government's minister for green skills, circular economy and biodiversity, said: “I look forward to engaging with communities and learning more about their proposals, and I encourage everyone to get involved as we move closer to naming Scotland’s next national park.

“Our existing national parks play an important role in tackling the biodiversity and climate crises, whilst also supporting local communities, businesses and visitors.

“Last year we consulted widely on the future of national parks in Scotland, and there was broad support for our commitment to create at least one new park by 2026.”

To pre-register interest, individual or groups should contact NationalParks@gov.scot or send a letter to New National Parks Team, Scottish Government, Victoria Quay, Edinburgh EH6 6QQ including their name, contact details and the area you wish to nominate.