Future of National Parks: strategic environmental assessment - environmental report

7. Next steps

7.1 The current consultation on the proposed legislative changes to the aims, functions, powers, and governance of National Parks in Scotland will conclude in November 2023. Following this, the selection and designation of new National Park(s) will take place.

7.2 In Autumn 2023 nominations for new National Parks will be invited following the finalisation of an appraisal framework. Communities and organisations wishing to develop and submit a nomination will have five months to develop their proposals. In Spring 2024 all nominations received by the Scottish Government will be appraised.

7.3 In Summer 2024, Ministers will announce their decision on the proposal(s) for new National Park(s) that will go forward for designation. A reporter will be appointed to undertake an investigation and report to Ministers on the proposal(s). This process will include a public consultation on the new National Park proposal(s). As more detailed information becomes available, it will be important to consider whether any new or previously unidentified significant effects may arise, and whether therefore any additional assessment may be required.

7.4 The designation of the National Park(s) will then take place during 2025-2026 through the development of and consultation on a Designation Order, and laying of the Designation Order before Parliament.