The Trust is backing the latest call to increase the number of National Parks to rejuvenate Scotland’s rural areas but would also like to see urban and marine areas to be considered.  

A joint report released this week by the Scottish Campaign for National Parks and The Association for the Protection of Rural Scotland (APRS) claims that designating more National Parks in areas such as southern Scotland or north-west Scotland could generate millions of pounds in extra revenue annually from tourism and other rural industries.

Chief Executive of the Scottish Wildlife Trust, Jonny Hughes, said: “The Scottish Wildlife Trust firmly believes that an increase in the number of national parks would not just be good for the environment, but also for Scotland’s economy.

“However, we shouldn’t limit ourselves to thinking that national parks should be just in rural areas. The Scottish Wildlife Trust would like to see consideration given to the designation of Urban National Parks and a revisiting of proposals for Marine National Parks which would create jobs and help restore damaged wildlife habitats. National Parks are something of a glaring opportunity for Scotland's people, environment and economy.” 

Read the joint report on the socio-economic benefits of new national park designations