This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Five vie to be first Marine National Park
31/03/2006
Five areas of Scotland have been put forward as potential sites for the country's first Coastal and Marine National Park.
A report by Scottish Natural Heritage suggests that the strongest candidates for a park are:
- Ardnamurchan
- Argyll Islands and Coast
- Small Isles
- Solway Firth
- South Skye Coast
Proposals to establish a park, the first of its kind in Europe, were announced last June. SNH was asked to prepare advice on the aims, powers and governance structure of any new park authority.
Environment Minister Ross Finnie said:
"Scotland's coasts and coastal waters, with all the activities that they support, are a valuable national asset.
"With abundant seas, vibrant communities and world class fish and shellfish on our doorstep we have a unique opportunity to promote the best of Scotland.
"The process to establish a Coastal and Marine National Park must demonstrate clearly how it can support the work of all those, whether in tourism or inshore fisheries management groups, who earn their living from that asset.
"No decisions have been taken, or will be without detailed consultation. We have asked SNH to publish this advice as it comes to Ministers so that all those with an interest can engage fully in this important debate."
The report suggests that the strongest case for a park can be made for any one of five areas, including Solway Firth; Argyll Islands and Coast; Ardnamurchan, Small Isles and the South Skye Coast, the North Skye Coast and Wester Ross; North Uist, Sound of Harris, Harris and South Lewis. Shetland, Orkney, Barra, and the Clyde and Moray Firths fell just outside this list.
The National Parks (Scotland) Act 2000 is an enabling Act, which sets out the criteria and the process for areas to be designated as National Parks in Scotland. It includes specific provisions for application of the Act to Marine areas.
More details on the consultation process will be announced on April 18 at the Scottish Coastal Forum.