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Background to National Parks in Scotland
There are currently two National Parks in Scotland, namely the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park and the Cairngorms National Park. The Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park is the planning authority for a limited area of the intertidal zone but neither Park contains marine elements below low water mark. This consultation invites views on proposals to create Scotland's first Coastal and Marine National Park.
The National Parks (Scotland) Act 2000 sets out four aims for Scottish National Parks:
- Conserve and enhance the natural and cultural heritage of the area
- Promote the sustainable use of the natural resources of the area
- Promote understanding and enjoyment (including enjoyment in the form of recreation) and of the special facilities of the area
- Promote the sustainable social and economic development of the area's communities
These aims seek to balance social and economic development opportunities with environmental considerations. The Executive considers these general aims are suitable for Scotland's first Coastal and Marine National Park. They follow the principles of sustainable development and recognise that environmental considerations cannot be looked at in isolation and indeed strong and healthy coastal communities can make a major contribution to managing the environment successfully.
National Parks are recognised here and throughout the world as a designation which helps to protect some of a nation's finest natural and cultural heritage. They are also seen as good examples of management and in the provision of opportunities for people to experience and learn more about the special value of these areas. As such, Scotland's National Parks are a key means of securing the nation's ambitions for protecting and enhancing in the long-term, the natural and cultural heritage of some of our most special places, and also for promoting their enjoyment and understanding by the public.
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