Galloway National Park Association Disbands
The Galloway National Park Association (GNPA), established in 2016 to advocate for the designation of Galloway as Scotland's third national park, has been officially dissolved.
The campaign aimed to see Galloway join the ranks of the Cairngorms and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs national parks. However, in May 2025, the Scottish Government decided to abandon the plans following an extended consultation process.
Rob Lucas, the former chair of the GNPA, expressed pride in the group's efforts and gratitude towards all supporters and participants.
"We are proud to have fought for a national park and grateful to everyone who has been involved and supported us," said Lucas.
Proposed Park Area and Controversy
The proposed national park would have encompassed substantial areas of Dumfries and Galloway, as well as parts of Ayrshire. The proposal, however, sparked debate and controversy within the region.
After a 14-week consultation period, NatureScot submitted its findings to the Scottish Government, which subsequently announced the decision not to proceed with the designation.
Supporters of the national park designation described the government's decision as a "missed opportunity," while opponents expressed relief at the outcome.
Campaigners in favour called it a "missed opportunity," whereas opponents said they were "very relieved."
