A SURVEY has been launched by the NFUS to gather members’ views on proposals for a new National Park in Galloway.
And the results will inform their official response to the ongoing NatureScot consultation.
The union’s members have until midnight on Sunday January 26 to share their opinions and it’s hoped there will be a big uptake.
Meanwhile, as part of the consultation process, NatureScot is scheduled to attend a meeting of NFU Dumfries and Galloway’s executive committee in January to discuss the proposals further.
Cummertrees farmer Stewart Wyllie, who is NFU Scotland’s Dumfries and Galloway regional chair, this week said: “This has been a highly contentious issue, and NFU Scotland has consistently opposed the designation of any new National Park across Scotland.
“Our position reflects concerns that a National Park would fail to provide benefits beyond those already delivered by existing structures and institutions in the region. Members have also raised significant concerns about potential challenges to the planning system that could arise from such a designation.
“I urge all members to take part in this survey. This consultation is a critical opportunity for NFU Scotland to represent your views on these updated proposals. Your feedback will shape our national response.”
Mr Wyllie is also encouraging people to participate in the official
NatureScot consultation.
That message is being echoed by members of the Galloway National Park Association.
Chair Rob Lucas said: “We are now entering the second half of the public consultation organised by the Reporter and we would encourage everyone to put their efforts into engaging in this statutory consultation phase as set out in the National Parks Act.”
