The Scottish government has decided not to proceed with plans to establish a new national park in Galloway, effectively halting the proposal to create Scotland’s third national park alongside the Cairngorms and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs. Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon acknowledged that while there was substantial support for the initiative, significant opposition and concerns raised during consultations led to the decision.
The proposal had been contentious, with local communities expressing mixed feelings. Finlay Carson, Conservative MSP for Galloway and West Dumfries, welcomed the decision, stating that the designation felt imposed rather than requested. Conversely, Labour MSP Colin Smyth expressed concern that the area might become a “dumping ground” for wind turbines and criticized the government for taking the “easy way out.” The Scottish Greens also criticized the decision, arguing that it deprived the region of potential economic investment and new powers associated with national park status.
Despite the setback, Gougeon emphasized the government’s commitment to existing national parks and indicated that future considerations for new national parks would remain open. She acknowledged the importance of addressing the concerns raised during the consultation process and expressed a desire to find alternative ways to support the region’s development and conservation efforts.
