New National Parks: nominations guidance and appraisal framework

Nominations process

Timeline

Below we have set out the timeline for the nomination and appraisal process.

Launch of nominations process - Early October 2023

The nominations process for new National Parks formally opens.

The appraisal framework (with selection criteria), standard nomination form and guidance for nominating groups are published on the Scottish Government website.

Scottish Government will also confirm the support that will be available to nominating groups.

Support to nominating groups - October 2023

Deadline for nominating groups to request support services (e.g. to help facilitate community engagement on the development of new National Park nominations).

Nomination phase - October 2023 to February 2024

The period during which individuals, groups and organisations will develop and submit their proposals. Nominating groups should use the standard nomination form and demonstrate how their nomination meets the criteria set out in the appraisal framework. Nominations should demonstrate evidence of engagement with stakeholders and affected communities.

Deadline for nominations - 29 February 2024

Deadline for the submission of nominations to be received by Scottish Government.

Appraisal of nominations - Spring 2024

All nominations will be appraised based on the criteria set out in the appraisal framework. The Scottish Government may request additional information from nominees. Appraisal report will be prepared for Ministers.

Confirmation of nomination(s) to be progressed as 'National Park proposal(s)' - Summer 2024

Scottish Government to announce the nomination(s) to be taken forward as proposals for designation as a National Park, subject to relevant legal conditions being met, including the compatibility with other regulatory frameworks in place or planned for the area. The statutory reporter investigation will then commence. Scottish Ministers will then decide and announce the area or areas to be designated as new National Park(s) subject to parliamentary approval.

Support to areas wishing to put forward a nomination

Scottish Government has launched an open procurement process to appoint an external organisation with the relevant expertise to provide support to nominating groups where this is required.

This support will be impartial and is offered to enable and support groups in the planning and development of their nominations, for example by helping to arrange and host local community discussions and workshops.

Nominating groups should contact nationalparks@gov.scot to request this support and the New National Parks Team will arrange a meeting to discuss support requirements.

Requests for support should be received no later than Friday 27 October. The support services cannot be guaranteed for requests received after this date.

Format

Nominating groups are required to submit their proposal using the standard nomination form. Where possible, electronic files are requested and should be provided in PDF format.

Submission

Nominations must be received by 29 February 2024. Unfortunately any nominations received after this deadline will not be accepted.

Nominations can be submitted by the following means:

Email: NationalParks@gov.scot

Post: New National Parks Team

Scottish Government

Victoria Quay

Edinburgh

EH6 6QQ