Local constituency MSP Finlay Carson has questioned the length of time people and businesses in Galloway will have during the consultation process for the proposed National Park in the area.
The Galloway and West Dumfries MSP voiced his concerns with the Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Island, Mairi Gougeon, at Holyrood earlier this week.
He asked whether “sufficient time” has been given to NatureScot to prepare a consultation document in the timescale outlined earlier.
The Scottish Conservative and Unionist MSP said: “As it has taken the Government two years to get the nomination for a national park on the table, and almost 10 years for the Galloway National Park Association to make its case, does the Cabinet Secretary feel sufficient time has been given to NatureScot to prepare a consultation document, which it will then have only 12 weeks to consult on, not to mention that those 12 weeks will take in Christmas and New Year?
“I am aware that there would be further consultation if the Scottish Government then decides to designate, but that would be only on the finer detail.”
He added: “Given that the national park designation will have significant impacts that will last generations, does the Cabinet Secretary agree that the people of Galloway should be given a significantly longer opportunity to make their feelings known, even if that pushes the decision to designate, or not, and any subsequent legislation, into the next parliamentary session?”
Ms Gougeon admitted that she understood the concern raised by the MSP in relation to the timing issue.
She told the Scottish Parliament that if there is to be a new national park in Galloway, it must be focused on helping to meet the needs of local communities.
NatureScot has now begun its investigation into the proposal and this will involve “extensive” public consultation.
The Cabinet Secretary said: “We want local people, communities and businesses to have their say on whether Galloway should become Scotland’s next national park, as well as on what role a new park could play in supporting economic growth, community development, visitor management and environmental protection.
“When we receive NatureScot’s report next spring, we will carefully consider its findings before setting out or deciding on any next steps.”
She added that it was “hugely important” that everybody who lives in the proposed area to ensure that they have their say.
Ms Gougeon remained confident that the timeframe that has been set out is enough time.
The Cabinet Secretary told MSPs: “Although there is a formal consultation time, as of yesterday, NatureScot has published an online resource that sets out where all that information will be available and how people will be able to have their say.
“I also know that there will be a number of engagement and other events outwith that consultation that communities can attend to ensure that they make their voice known and heard.
“I will not commit at this stage to extending a process when I do not know whether that will be needed.”
However she did concede that she was happy to consider extending the timeframe as the consultation process moves through the investigation process, if it appears that more time may be needed.
The local constituency MSP has yet again stressed the importance of individuals, local groups and organisations as well as businesses to get involved in the consultation process.
He said: “It is vitally important that everybody shares their views and opinions over whether they want to see a National Park in Galloway, or not, so please get involved.”
