The Scottish Government has committed to designating at least one new National Park in Scotland by the end of this parliamentary session in 2026. An open and public invitation for expressions of interest in new National Parks was launched in May 2023. Communities and organisations who wish to put their area forward for designation as a National Park were invited to develop and submit their 'nomination'. On 12 October 2023, Scottish Government launched the nomination process for new National Parks.
The broad selection criteria that will be used to help assess nominations for new National Parks are:
- outstanding national importance
- size, character and coherence
- meeting the special needs of the area
- strategic contribution
- visitor management and tourism
- local support
The area of Loch Awe has engaged in this process to explore the potential of becoming a National Park and would like to hear your views to guide the nominating group forward.
