§ 24. Mrs. McCurley asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on regional parks in Scotland.
§ Mr. AncramThe Countryside (Scotland) Act 1981 gives regional councils the power, by order, to designate land as regional parks. If there are unwithdrawn objections to an order the Secretary of State's confirmation is required.
Two regional parks have so far been designated in Scotland. Designation orders have been made for two others at Loch Lomond and Clyde-Muirshiel, but objections have been submitted against both orders. In the former case it has been agreed to proceed by written submissions and a site inspection by an inquiry reporter, who will recommend to the Secretary of State whether or not the order should be confirmed. No decision on procedure has yet been reached in respect of the proposed Clyde-Muirshiel regional park.