The Scottish Government intends to designate at least one new National Park in Scotland by the end of the parliamentary session in 2026. Galloway has been confirmed as the proposed location.
Background
Our previous blog outlines the designation procedure, the statutory aims of national parks, and the implications for the planning system, especially for on shore wind projects.
Location
According to Wikipedia, the historic shires of Kirkcudbrightshire and Wigtownshire, are collectively known as Galloway. Along with Dumfriesshire, they form the Dumfries and Galloway council area, situated in the south-west of Scotland.
The boundary of the national park is one of the issues to be considered by NatureScot in preparing its report (below). The Scottish Government announcement refers to the map submitted in the nomination. That only shows an approximate boundary line.
The larger version of the map shows an approximate landward boundary dipping and looping from Girvan on the Firth of Clyde (in the South Ayrshire Council area) to the Solway coast at the River Nith. It goes as far north as Dalmellington (in East Ayrshire Council), to include the Galloway Forest Park. It includes towns such as Stranraer, Newton Stewart, Wigtown, and Kirkcudbright; but excludes Dalbeattie and Castle Douglas.
Status and next steps
This is still a proposal.
The next step is for NatureScot to consider the proposal, including undertaking consultation and engagement. They will produce a report by 28 April 2025, which will be laid before Parliament and published.
Following the report, if the Scottish Government decide to proceed, a draft designation order will be prepared.
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