To ask the Deputy First Minister by what date the Scottish Government will decide which of the national park nominations will be taken forward to the next stage. (S6F-03205)

The deadline for nominations for areas to be considered for designation as a new national park was 29 February 2024. Nominations have been received from Galloway, Lochaber, Loch Awe, Scottish Borders and Tay forests. An appraisal process commenced in March 2024, and concluded last week. The Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands, Mairi Gougeon, is now considering the outcome of that process and will make recommendations shortly.

I live in a national park, and I see every day how it hugely benefits businesses, communities and nature. From speaking to local businesses in the stunning Tay forest area, it is clear that they are looking for certainty about the designation of Scotland’s third national park. However, the clock is ticking, particularly for the statutory process to complete by 2026.

Will Kate Forbes personally ensure that this Government leaves a lasting and tangible green legacy for our rural communities by designating at least one new national park ahead of the next Holyrood election?

Mark Ruskell will know that I do not quite live in a national park, but I represent one. I see the benefits, particularly in and around the Cairngorms national park area.

On the process, Cabinet will take a decision on next steps over the summer. The criteria that have been finalised for evaluating the national parks are clear; they relate to outstanding national importance, the size, character and coherence of the area, and meeting the special needs of the area. It may be that not all the proposals meet the criteria, but that decision will be taken by the Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands.

We move to general and constituency supplementaries.