A joint proposal from the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere and the Galloway National Park Association – both of which highlight the region’s diverse landscapes and stunning coastline – has led to Galloway being confirmed as the proposed location for Scotland’s next national park.
Before anything is confirmed, there will now be a further investigation to test its suitability. This will include getting local residents, communities, businesses, and any interested parties to share their views, and determining where the boundary should be drawn and why. NatureScot will then assess whether the proposed area meets the necessary criteria for national park status, including the quality of its natural environment, its biodiversity, and its potential for sustainable development.
The Allure of Galloway
Galloway has long been a top tourist attraction, especially for motorhome hire holidays, where visitors have more time and freedom to explore the area. But because it’s so popular, locals have been asking for stronger protection to help preserve biodiversity and support wildlife conservation efforts. This would ensure that the region’s unique ecosystems are safeguarded, while also allowing for sustainable tourism that doesn’t overwhelm the area’s natural resources.
Doubts About the Proposed Plans
There are many obvious benefits to making Galloway a National Park, but the locals must be taken into account. At the time of writing, the consensus on the proposed Galloway plans seems to be divided, with some locals worried that the decision will bring a bigger influx of tourism that local businesses will not be able to deal with. According to a member of the ‘No Galloway National Park’ campaign, there are many improvements needed first for locals, including a better road system for the A75 and A77, and a better ‘infrastructure for increased tourism’.
Reasons Behind the Proposed Plans
On the other side, John Mayhew – from the Scottish Campaign for National Parks – has said that a national park could give locals more say about what happens in the region, as it sets up a structure that allows people in that area – not the Scottish Government or NatureScot – to set their priorities.
Akin to this, the director of Scottish Environment Link has stated that the national park is intended to protect and enhance the special qualities of the area’s landscape, including both ‘natural and cultural heritage’. A key objective, for instance, is to support farming and food production, ensuring that agricultural practices are maintained while promoting the conservation of the environment.
The Benefits of Making Galloway a National Park
While local concerns should of course be listened to, there are several benefits to making Galloway a national park that cannot be underestimated. As Mayhew noted, one of the major benefits of national park status is that it would provide locals with more direct involvement in the decision-making processes affecting their region.
The governance structure of a national park allows for local boards or councils to have a say in making important decisions about land management, conservation efforts, tourism development, and more, which effectively ensures the park reflects the needs and values of locals first, before anyone else. It’s also worth noting that tourism in Galloway is already increasing, even without it being a national park. By giving it the numerous protections that national park status ensures, Galloway can be better equipped to handle increased visitation sustainably, while also safeguarding its unique natural and cultural resources.
Visiting Galloway
There is an emphasis on tourists to be respectful to locals and the environment, however. If the plans are to go ahead, and you plan on visiting Galloway as part of your motorhome travels, there are things you can do to help as the region becomes increasingly popular.
The first is to stay in designated areas, using official campsites and motorhome facilities, and following campsite etiquette. You should also be respectful of local roads, which are often narrow, winding, and remote. When driving a motorhome, take care not to block traffic, and be especially cautious of wildlife, including deer and birds, which are common in the region.
It’s also important to support local businesses. Take advantage of the local farmers, artisans, and small businesses, and when you can, try to eat at local restaurants to enjoy the region’s fresh produce and seafood. By doing this, you’ll be directly contributing to the community’s economy, while also getting the opportunity to engage with the community and learn more about what makes Galloway special.
Lastly, make sure to empty your waste at designated disposal points, and always remain respectful of the environment. By doing so, you’ll contribute to the sustainable tourism efforts that national park status aims to promote, helping to preserve the region of Galloway now and in the future.
