Galloway National Park consultation ends today
Both sides of the debate have voiced their arguments for the last few months.
Today is your last chance to respond to a consultation on the proposed Galloway National Park.
Opponents had called for the process to be halted a few weeks ago, claiming it was biased in favour of the park's introduction – the request was denied.
Denise Brownlee, co-founder of the No Galloway National Park group, said it lacked detail.
“From the very beginning, we questioned why a national park was being proposed before completing a thorough and independent review on the success of those already in existence, and the Natural Environment Bill cuts right across what the pro-park campaign claims.
“The proposal for a new national park, and the resulting consultation, is just a face-saving exercise for the Scottish Government and not ‘for the people of Galloway,’ despite what we’ve been repeatedly told.”
There have been a couple of demonstrations held before council meetings where anti-Park campaigners chanted and showed off their no-posters.
However, the pro-Park campaign group have had various backing from councillors who want to see “a Park created that will be led by locals, putting local people first, protecting planning and investing in the economy.”
East Ayrshire Council voted to give a positive response to the consultation also, as well as South Ayrshire.
Chair of the Galloway National Park Association Rob Lucas said: “The council has shown true vision, taking a decision that will bring real benefits to the people and environment of East Ayrshire. More than that, they have taken a stand for the wider region and the whole of Scotland.
“A new National Park means investment and opportunity, a better future for our young people and would be significant in our country’s efforts to protect nature and combat climate change.”
Dumfries and Galloway councillors held a special meeting last Wednesday and after a lengthy debate, they confirmed they were “undecided” and wanted more information and clarity before deciding.
Anyone wanting to cast their views before the deadline can fill out the survey here.
NatureScot will report the consultation's results to the Scottish Government in April.