Minister rejects call for Galloway national park referendum

Ms Gougeon said she would not stop the consultation on the new national park in order to undertake an independent review of existing ones.

However, she told MSPs it was “concerning” how divisive the proposal had proved among residents in the south of Scotland.

She added: “I think there has been concern that this is a done deal, that the government had a commitment to establish a park and regardless of what happens that would be taking place anyway.

“That is by no means the case.

“As I say, I want to hear what people in the area think about it before then determining any next steps.”

The consultation, run by NatureScot, is already open and runs until 14 February.