The letter was included in an update report discussed at Full Council today (Thursday 11 December) following the decision of the Scottish Government in May 2025 not to pursue the proposal for a National Park in Galloway and Ayrshire.
NatureScot led an extensive consultation between November 2024 and February 2025 on a new national park in Scotland. At Full Council on 5 February 2025 elected members voted to provide a consultation response of 'undecided' to the key question: “To what extent do you support the idea of a new national park being established in the south west of Scotland?”
Dumfries and Galloway Council submitted its detailed response in February 2025. NatureScot’s findings and recommendations were published in May 2025.
Although the Scottish Government decided not to pursue the designation of a National Park at this time, NatureScot proposed strengthening existing frameworks to deliver urgent action on the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss. 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 Cabinet Secretary’s recent letter to Dumfries and Galloway Council, South Ayrshire Council and East Ayrshire Council signals a clear intent to re-engage with these 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.”
Next Steps
- Working Group Launch: a short-life working group will coordinate local actions, identify funding streams and set clear objectives.
- Regional Collaboration: joint work with South Ayrshire and East Ayrshire councils, plus other public bodies, to ensure a joined-up approach.
- Community Updates: regular communication with residents and stakeholders to keep everyone informed and involved.