The Galloway National Park consultation is wrapping up, and locals are urged to share their thoughts before it closes next month
Galloway: The consultation for the Galloway National Park is in its last month, and things are heating up. There’s a big push to get locals to share their opinions, whether they’re for or against the park.
On Tuesday night, there’s a Q&A meeting at Parton Village Hall at 7 pm. It’s a great chance for folks to get more info and ask questions.
Representatives from the Galloway National Park Association, the NFU, Scottish Woodlands, and tourism will be there to chat with everyone.
Plus, there are five more official consultation events happening this month in Barnhill, Dalbeattie, Castle Douglas, and Dumfries.
Meanwhile, those against the park plans are planning a demonstration at the Scottish Parliament on February 13, expecting a good turnout of protestors.
The consultation wraps up on February 14. Since it started on November 7, nearly 1,000 people have attended over 30 public events, and 52,000 leaflets have been sent out to local homes and businesses.
More than 1,800 online surveys have also been filled out. NatureScot’s team has been busy, attending 216 meetings with residents and responding to over 1,100 emails.
Pete Rawcliffe, head of people and places at NatureScot, mentioned they’ve been listening to everyone’s views during this busy consultation period.
He emphasized that it’s important for locals to discuss the national park proposal and share their thoughts, whether they support it or have other ideas.
All feedback will be included in a report to Scottish ministers this spring. With a month left, there’s still time to get involved, read the proposal, and make your voice heard.
For more details, check out their website for extensive information and accessible survey versions.
