Tay Forest National Park

We believe that the stunning natural beauty and heritage of Highland Perthshire lends itself as the ideal location to be a new national park

Tay Forest National Park

The Scottish Government has made a commitment that by the end of the current parliamentary session in 2026, Scotland will have at least one new national park.

With over 200,000 acres of woodland, which throughout the year provides a stunning show of colour as we move through the seasons; between the spring bluebells and autumn colours - Big Tree Country is a truly stunning area. In addition, it is home to more champion trees than anywhere else in the UK. In some areas we have seen the natural regeneration of native trees such as oak, hazel and birch all gaining superiority and creating a beautiful canvas of trees.

We want our national park to represent all areas of natural heritage and so we felt it was only right that the staggering River Tay be a featured element and truly fitting to be a characteristic in our name. Not only is it the longest river in Scotland, but it also offers high biodiversity value and a haven for a number of species of aquatic animals. Designated as an SSSI and as a Special Area of Conservation, the river is noted for its importance for Salmon, Otters, Brook Lampreys, River Lampreys and Sea Lampreys. The Tay also has a flagship population of Freshwater Pearl Mussels; an endangered species which makes it critically important that existing populations are preserved.

We believe that the Tay Forest National Park will be an area where nature will be allowed to thrive and the natural biodiversity of the region will go from strength to strength. Combined with an increased and dedicated focus on issues such improvements to visitor management strategies and policies; we can create a national park to be enjoyed by all.

The Scottish Government's Environmental Strategy 2020 states that there is a commitment to meeting carbon reductions targets and adapting to climate change through implementation of the Climate Change Action Plan by developing thriving rural economies based around woodland creation, peatland restoration and biodiversity as well as sustainable tourism, food and drink and energy. We believe that the Tay Forest National Park would tick all those boxes.

Tay Forest National Park - Provisional boundary map

Updated map showing proposed boundary — Proposed boundary of the Tay Forest National Park in Highland Perthshire

Tay Forest National Park - Tabs

What is a national park? The benefits of being a national park Climate change FAQs

Tay Forest National Park - What is a national park?

A national park is an area set aside for the preservation of the natural environment.

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Tay Forest National Park - The benefits of being a national park

In recent years we have seen an increase in visitors to our rural areas as more people chose to holiday at home; and with that we have seen increased pressures to not only our own services but also on partner organisations.

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Tay Forest National Park - Climate change

If we are successful in our bid to have Highland Perthshire declared a national park, there will be far greater opportunities available to everyone to protect the stunning natural environment and help ensure that it not only survives but continues to thrive.

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