Rural Payments and Services

Communities and organisations are being invited to submit their proposals to become Scotland’s next National Park.

A key commitment in the Bute House Agreement is to designate at least one new National Park in Scotland by 2026, to bring positive benefits for the environment and economy.

For the first time, nominations for a new Park will be driven entirely by local communities and organisations, and all areas of Scotland are eligible to submit proposals. To meet the criteria, groups must be able to demonstrate, among other factors:

• outstanding national importance due to natural or culture heritage
• a distinctive character and coherent identity
• how National Park status would meet the specific needs of the area
• evidence of local support for the proposal

Detailed guidance has been published, and support will be available for any group looking to explore or take forward a proposal. The deadline for submissions is 29 February 2024.

Background

New National Parks in Scotland - full press release (gov.scot)

New National Parks: Nominations Guidance and Appraisal Framework - guidance (gov.scot)