If approved, Galloway could be the UKs first national park since the South Downs was named in 2010.

Selected from a five-strong shortlist, the Scottish government confirmed the winning bid on Monday. A deeper investigation into the site’s suitability will now begin.

If given official designation, it will mark Scotland’s third national park, alongside the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs created in 2002 and the Cairngorms in 2003.

If Galloway secures national park status it would ensure protection and preservation of the area’s natural landscape, wildlife habitats and collective ecosystem.

Lorna Slater, co-leader of the Scottish Greens and a leader on the project comments on the decision;

“This will have a transformative impact for local nature and communities, and will bring in a lot of vital investment, protections and opportunities. It will give local people, farmers and businesses the chance to build the park in their vision and serve as a beacon for a greener Scotland.”

If awarded national park status, it will fulfill the Scottish government’s pledge to designate “at least one” new park by spring 2026.