NatureScot is pleased to advise that, early in November 2024, we launched the formal consultation on the proposed new National Park in southwest Scotland, with the publication of the consultation document on our website www.nature.scot under the National Parks section. This includes questions to gauge the level of support or opposition to the proposed National Park as well as more detailed options for its possible geographic area, functions, powers, governance and name.

There are six main elements to the consultation:

1) A full (technical) online survey (designed primarily for organisations and stakeholders).

2) A summary online survey (designed primarily for individuals and households).

3) A survey leaflet to be distributed to the 52,000 household and business addresses in or close to the area.

4) At least twenty-six independently facilitated public consultation events held across the area complemented by drop-in surgeries which we will deliver.

5) Sector-led consultation meetings and events including for land managers, tourism, renewables, conservation, and local authorities.

6) A range of bespoke engagement work with young people, black and ethnic minorities, disability groups, and other under-represented groups.

The formal consultation phase has been extended to 14 weeks and will now run until 14 February 2025.