Opportunity to help shape future of National Park
People are being encouraged to play their part in the future of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park by standing as a candidate for the Park Authority’s Board.
Elections are taking place this summer to appoint five new local members to the Board, which is responsible for guiding the organisation and making important decisions on matters ranging from tackling climate change to planning.
The five new members will be chosen by people who live in the National Park and local residents are also being encouraged to consider becoming Board members themselves.
Candidates do not need to live in the National Park to stand for election but they must have the written support of 10 people who do.
James Stuart, Convenor of the National Park Authority Board, said: “We need people’s help to shape the future of our National Park. Twenty years ago, Scotland’s first National Park was designated here and now we are urging people to take part in our next chapter by standing to be part of our Board or voting for their preferred candidate on 7th July.
“Much has changed in those twenty years and the role of the National Park Authority continues to evolve, with an increasing focus on tackling the global climate emergency and nature crisis.
“To meet this challenge, we need a broad range of people, perspectives and skills on our Board. This is a flexible and rewarding role and we are especially encouraging nominations from people who will contribute to the diversity of our Board, to ensure our work is representative of Scotland and everyone who has a connection to this iconic National Park.”
Hybrid meetings, a thorough induction process and ongoing training are all in place to support new Board members and to make it possible to fit the role around family and work life.
Nominations to stand as a candidate open this week (Thursday 12th May) and anyone over the age of 21 can stand.
One Board member will be elected in each of the five electoral wards in the National Park and these locally elected members will play a key role in working with the local communities in their ward.
Board member Heather Reid said: “Joining the Board is a fantastic way to help influence priorities in the local area. Since joining the Board, I’ve been involved in work around climate targets and I’ve found it incredibly rewarding to work with young people from the area to champion their voices in Board decision-making.
“Being a Board member is of course a commitment but meetings and duties can fit easily around work and family life.
“Everyone has something to offer, even if you don’t think you are traditional Board member material, and you will get all the support you need to carry out Board duties.”
Anyone interested in standing as a candidate can download a nomination pack from the National Park website or pick one up from National Park HQ in Balloch or Stirling Council office.
Registered voters aged 16 or above who live in the National Park will receive postal ballots for the elections on or around Thursday 16th June. The election count will take place at National Park Headquarters in Balloch on the evening of Thursday 7th July 2022.
For more information about the elections, including how to cast your vote and how to stand as a candidate, see www.lochlomond-trossachs.org/elections2022 or contact elections@lochlomond-trossachs.org