Shout Out for Galloway – Seeking Your Views on Scotland’s New National Park

Campaigners are urging people across Galloway to take part in drop-in sessions to give their views on plans for Scotland’s next National Park.

GNPA (Galloway National Park Association) are holding the consultations at the end of January and the start of February as part of the final push for the region to be awarded National Park status.

There are several areas in the running and all are preparing their final bids ahead of the Scottish Government deadline in February.

GNPA has already spoken with well over 2,000 local people and organisations but wants the Scottish Government to be aware of the full strength of public feeling.

Their aim is to gather expressions of support – and any concerns - from as many people and organisations as possible.

Rob Lucas, GNPA chair, said: “Your voice could make all the difference. Public support is essential as part of the process for deciding which part of Scotland should be awarded National Park status.

“Over the last six years we have spoken to large numbers of people across the Park area to gather their views. We have been greatly encouraged by the feedback and want to ensure that our bid fully captures the benefits but also addresses the concerns raised.

“We are really hoping that even more people will seize the opportunity to find out more and take part in our drop-in sessions over the coming days.”

Drop-in sessions are happening in:

·       Kirkcudbright (30 January, Johnston Centre 2-6pm)

·       Wigtown (31 January, County Building 2-7pm)

·       Dalmellington (1 February, Community Centre 2-7pm)

·       Stranraer (2 February, Millennium Centre 2-7pm).