A PUBLIC consultation has been launched on the creation of a new national park in south-west Scotland.

Scottish government agency NatureScot has launched a statutory consultation on proposals for a new park covering Galloway as well as parts of south and east Ayrshire.

Ahead of a series of public events to encourage debate and discussion of the proposals, NatureScot’s Pete Rawcliffe said: “A new National Park in Galloway is still a proposal and not a done deal, and this is an opportunity for anyone with an interest in the proposal to have their voice heard.”

SNP rural affairs secretary Mairi Gougeon said: “It is vitally important that we hear from people living and working in the area and that the people of Galloway and South and East Ayrshire have the opportunity to discuss the issues, and properly.

“Everyone’s views will be listened to and taken into account and I would encourage everyone with an interest to engage with the consultation process in a constructive and respectful way.”

The consultation will close on February 14.