Plans for National Park in Galloway and Ayrshire rejected

The Scottish Government has rejected proposals to turn Galloway and parts of Ayrshire into a National Park.

It is blaming the decision on too much opposition to the plans despite the fact they could bring significant investment to the southwest of the country.

Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon said: “While there is substantial support for a National Park and what it could deliver for the southwest of Scotland, there is also significant opposition.

"I realise that this decision will be very disappointing for those who have been campaigning for a new National Park in Galloway over many years.

“I also recognise the huge amount of work and time that has been invested by a great many people throughout this process.

"I would like to thank everyone involved, including members of the Galloway National Park Association and the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere.

The proposal to designate a new National Park in Galloway and Ayrshire was jointly put forward by the Galloway National Park Association and the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere.

The RSPB says it is very disappointed by the deicision.

A spokesperson 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 today’s 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."

Hear the latest news on Clyde 1 on FM, DAB, smart speaker or the Rayo app.