The Galloway National Park Association has expressed disappointment at the outcome of yesterday’s debate in the Scottish Parliament and pledged to redouble its campaign.
Emma Harper MSP put a motion to the Scottish Parliament to support moves towards the creation of a new National Park in Galloway and received all party backing.
But the Minister has said Scottish Government has no intention to designate new National Parks.
Rob Lucas, Chair of the Association, said:
“The outcome of yesterday’s debate represents a missed opportunity not just for Galloway but the whole of Scotland, especially as Glasgow is soon to host the COP26 climate change conference.
“It is disappointing that Ben Macpherson MSP, Minister for Rural Affairs and the Natural Environment, failed to respond to the wishes and needs of our region and our country both to protect nature and to nurture a sustainable economy.
“However, our campaign really begins now.
“We were hugely encouraged by the strong support shown by MSPs of all parties to create Scotland’s third National Park in Galloway. We would especially thank Emma Harper for putting the motion and to Finlay Carson and Colin Smyth for the support they have given to our campaign over the past five years.
“In the run-up to the Scottish Parliament elections we will call on all candidates for the local constituency and South of Scotland seats to commit their support to creating a National Park in Galloway. We will also be pressing all parties to have a commitment in their manifesto to create more National Parks in Scotland and Galloway in particular.
“Even with lockdown our membership continues to grow and support for a National Park at the heart of a sustainable future for Galloway increases by the day.”
