National Parks (Scotland) Act 2000


The National Parks Act 2000 is an Act of the Scottish Parliament.

Background

Before the act was passed Scotland did not have any national parks.

Provisions

It sets out four main aims of the national parks of Scotland. It also lays out criteria for what qualifies a park for National Park status, and the process necessary to create such features. The act in itself does not establish any new National Parks; it merely creates powers for the designation of National Parks.

Aims of national parks

Taken from the National Parks Act 2000:"to conserve and enhance the natural and cultural heritage of the area.""to promote sustainable use of the natural resources of the area.""to promote understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the area by the public."

Further developments

The first National Park to be designated under the act was Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park.

Reception

The act received unanimous support in the Scottish Parliament.