People encouraged to share thoughts on Galloway National Park bid
Consultations will be held into the start of February
People in Galloway are being encouraged to come forward and share their thoughts on a potential new National Park.
Consultations begin on Tuesday January 30, and will continue until February 2.
Galloway National Park Association (GNPA) are holding the meetings as part of their final push to being awarded the status.
GNPA Chair Rob Lucas said the public support is âessentialâ to the decision of which area is named a National Park.
He added: âOver the last six years we have spoken to large numbers of people across the Park area to gather their views.
âWe have been greatly encouraged by the feedback and want to ensure that our bid fully captures the benefits but also addresses the concerns raised.
âWe are really hoping that even more people will seize the opportunity to find out more and take part in our drop-in sessions over the coming days.â
More than 2,000 people have already been consulted, but the GNPA wants the Scottish Government to see the full strength of public feeling.
Mr Lucas said: âYour voice could make all the difference.â
It is hoped the National Park will bring more visitors to the Galloway area, and help both the economy, and the landscape and biodiversity.
The area it would cover would be from Dumfries and Galloway, into South and East Ayrshire.
Anyone who wants to take part in a consultation can visit a drop in session in:
Kirkcudbright (30 January, Johnston Centre 2-6pm)
Wigtown (31 January, County Building 2-7pm)
Dalmellington (1 February, Community Centre 2-7pm)
Stranrae (2 February, Millenium Centre 2-7pm).