The Scottish Government must not “simply walk away” if they take the decision not to designate Galloway as Scotland’s next National Park, according to Finlay Carson MSP.
He insists the SNP Government must recognise and address the unique challenges and opportunities facing rural businesses in his Galloway and West Dumfries constituency including tourist and hospitality.
The Galloway and West Dumfries made his demand at Holyrood on Thursday after it was confirmed ministers had already received a report from NatureScot following the consultation process to determine whether Galloway would become Scotland’s third national park.
Mr Carson said: “Biodiversity, the natural environment and landscapes are, of course, key factors when it comes to designation any new national parks.
“Economic sustainability and growth are also critical considerations.”
The Scottish Conservative and Unionist MSP questioned the robustness of the designation process carried out in determining the pros and cons of Galloway being chosen.
He described the consultation as being “less than satisfactory with significant issues, including a perceived bias.
The MSP also highlighted the lack of any detail on how a Galloway National Park would or could be different from the existing two – given the area’s hugely important dairy farming, forestry and renewable sectors.
Mr Carson explained: “This has resulted in mistrust and divisions within communities which will take years to heal.
“We’ve heard that the Scottish Government has now received the consultation report from NatureScot and is currently being considered.
“The report has not been published as promised, with constituents now having to wait until the end of June for the government to respond with a decision.”
The local constituency MSP suspects that the national park proposal has not received the grassroots support to carry it over the line.
He told MSPs: “My understanding is that there is not the majority in favour of a national park proposal and a full designation order is unlikely to be made.
“But on that basis, will the Cabinet Secretary ensure in her discussions with the Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs that the Scottish Government will not simply walk away without recognising and addressing the unique challenges and opportunities facing rural businesses.”
In her response, Gillian Martin, Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy, said there had been a “very thorough and comprehensive consultation process.”
She revealed there was 5000 consultation surveys that were completed and over 30 consultation events were held across the proposed area with more than 1,000 people attending.
Ms Martin added: “I think the Cabinet Secretary has to look at the results of the consultation and take them seriously.
“There’s not a lot of information included in that consultation, and she will advise Parliament when she is ready to do so.”
