Campaigners seeking to persuade Scottish Ministers to make Galloway the country’s third national park have hailed public support for their bid.
Now the Galloway National Park Association (GNPA) is preparing to strengthen its case even further in 2023.
The Scottish Government is already consulting on what form the new park should take.
And next year different areas of the country will be able to make their formal bids – with Galloway thought to be among the frontrunners.
Rob Lucas, GNPA chairperson, said: “Things have been moving fast as critical decisions are made and the ground is laid for the formal bidding to begin.
“The level of public enthusiasm has been inspiring – including from young people who have made videos showing why they want a national park.
“Businesses of all kinds have signed up to support us too – recognising the advantages it would bring in creating a strong and sustainable economy.
“And while politicians tend to get flak more often than praise, we have been enormously impressed by the enthusiasm from councillors, MSPs, MPs and others.”
The GNPA slogan ‘It’s got to be Galloway’ has underscored its bid from the start. And the catchy phrase proved to be a winner with majority of Dumfries and Galloway councillors elected in May supporting the campaign.
More than 125 Galloway National Park business champions have also signed up – ranging from butchers, bakers and florists to farmers.
Mr Lucas added: “As the year comes to a close I’d just like to thank everyone who has supported us and would like to ask for their continued support in 2023.
With the formal bidding process due to take place in the coming year it will then be up to the Scottish Government to decide where the new National Park should be located – with formal designation likely to be in 2024.
