Scottish government scraps Galloway national park plan

The Scottish government has decided not to proceed with plans to designate a new national park in Galloway, following significant opposition from local communities, farming and land-based organisations.

A public consultation conducted by government nature agency NatureScot revealed 54% of respondents opposed the proposal, and only 42% were in support.

The decision aligns with the recommendations of NatureScot as the statutory reporter, which advised against the designation.

It suggested strengthening existing initiatives such as the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Unesco Biosphere and the Galloway Forest Park.

See also: Scots farm leaders question value of new national parks

Landowner organisation Scottish Land & Estates (SLE) welcomed the government’s decision, stating it reflects the views of those who would be most affected by such a designation.

Stephen Young, SLE director of policy, said a majority of local residents and businesses expressed opposition to the national park proposal.

He noted that existing initiatives are already delivering benefits for nature, people, and the economy, and questioned the added value of a new national park.

Mr Young also highlighted the importance of supporting rural businesses and infrastructure to ensure the long-term prosperity of the region.

NFU Scotland (NFUS) expressed support for the government’s decision.

The union had previously conducted a survey indicating that 78% of its members opposed the national park proposal, citing concerns over increased bureaucracy and potential negative impacts on farming operations.

📢 #ScotGov has dropped plans for #GallowayNationalPark after 57% of local respondents opposed it.

We welcome this decision to listen to farmers, crofters and land managers. Let’s now strengthen existing projects that deliver for nature and rural Scotland. 🌱 pic.twitter.com/PoTmJ36heE

— NFU Scotland (@NFUStweets) May 29, 2025

NFUS president Andrew Connon said: “Farmers, crofters and land managers raised legitimate concerns around the clarity, cost and purpose of the designation.

“The Scottish government has clearly recognised that there was not enough local backing for such a significant change in land management structure. 

“We thank NatureScot for engaging closely with us during the process and for recognising, as we have repeatedly called for, that existing arrangements should be strengthened rather than overhauled.”  

He added: “We are glad the Scottish government has chosen to listen to local voices, including our members and not proceed with the park.”

Local opposition

The No Galloway National Park campaign, co-founded by Liz Hitschmann and Denise Brownlee, also welcomed the government’s decision.

Ms Hitschmann expressed relief that the overwhelming response from local people was acknowledged, while Ms Brownlee said a real plan for investment in the region’s infrastructure is now required.

Announcing the decision in Holyrood on 29 May, Scottish rural affairs secretary Mairi Gougeon acknowledged the disappointment of those who had been campaigning for a new national park in Galloway.

“While there is substantial support for a national park and what it could deliver for the south-west of Scotland, there is also significant opposition,” she said.

“I realise this decision will be very disappointing for those who have been campaigning for a new national park in Galloway over many years.”

However, Ms Gougeon reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting existing national parks and the vital role they play in addressing climate and biodiversity challenges.