The deadline for nominations for areas to be considered for designation as a new national park was 29 February 2024. Nominations have been received from Galloway, Lochaber, Loch Awe, Scottish Borders and Tay forests. An appraisal process commenced in March 2024, and concluded last week. The Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands, Mairi Gougeon, is now considering the outcome of that process and will make recommendations shortly.