In a unique gathering, Kirkbean welcomed speakers from both sides of the Galloway National Park debate. The village hall was packed with over 150 attendees eager to listen and participate. Gordon Mann from the Galloway National Park Association advocated for the park, while Denise Brownlee from Gatehouse and Alasdair Marshall from Crocketford presented arguments against it. The event was organised by Ronnie Stevenson and Brendan Muldowney from Kirkbean Community Council, who emphasised the importance of respectful dialogue without interruptions.
The audience had the opportunity to hear perspectives from both camps, leading to a more enlightening discussion. Despite pre-existing opinions, a significant number of attendees remained undecided. Gordon Mann addressed concerns about democratic accountability, stating that the park’s board would have local representation alongside skilled individuals in various sectors. He highlighted the need for sustainable economic development to address Galloway’s demographic challenges.
Denise Brownlee opposed the national park, advocating for prioritising infrastructure investment over creating a park. She expressed concerns about potential impacts on local control and employment opportunities. Alasdair Marshall raised issues regarding potential house price increases and the impact on local communities. He questioned the affordability of living within a national park area, citing statistics from other regions.
Following the presentations, an informal poll revealed a clear majority against the park, with a significant number of undecided participants. The discussion brought to light contrasting perspectives on the potential benefits and drawbacks of establishing a national park in Galloway. The event offered valuable insights into the ongoing debate and highlighted the diverse opinions within the community.