Minister's letter on Galloway welcomed

INVESTMENT in Galloway's landscapes is coming, as the Scottish Government renews its commitment to nature restoration and development.

At last week's full council meeting, councillors welcomed Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs Mairi Gougeon's confirmation of the Scottish Government’s renewed commitment to working with the council on nature restoration, climate action and sustainable economic development, following the National Park consultation this year.

Although the government decided not to pursue the designation of a National Park at this time, NatureScot proposed strengthening existing groups and bodies to deliver urgent action on climate change and biodiversity loss.

Its recommendations included:

– Enhancing the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere Reserve with a stronger focus on nature recovery and community wealth-building.

– Developing a new strategic plan for Galloway Forest Park to balance nature and commercial forestry.

– Renewing commitments to National Scenic Areas and completing the coastal path as a key visitor attraction.

– Sustained investment in access and visitor management across the region.

– Progressing the regional land-use strategy and supporting the Solway Firth Partnership.

The letter signals a clear intent to re-engage with the recommendations and explore new partnership opportunities. This includes discussions on how to deliver nature restoration, climate action, sustainable economic growth and tourism development across the region.

Council convener Cllr Katie Hagmann said: “We very much welcome the Scottish Government’s commitment to work collaboratively with us and our partners. This is an important opportunity to build on the momentum created by the National Park consultation and has the potential to deliver real benefits for our communities, our environment and our economy.

“Dumfries and Galloway Council remains committed to creating a sustainable future for our region, celebrating and balancing environmental awareness and protection with economic opportunity and community wellbeing.”