Five-year vision for rural development within Loch Lomond national park

The public are being invited to have their say on a plan setting out key priorities for rural development in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park over the next five years.The draft National Park Partnership Plan 2018-2023 sets out a broad-ranging vision for how the Park Authority and its partners will work together to further develop the many benefits the National Park can offer Scotland’s environment, society, culture and economy.A 12-week consultation on the draft plan will run until July 3.Rural development is one of the three key themes with priorities including:Attracting and retaining more skilled working age and young peopleA thriving visitor economyInvesting in towns and villages’ built and historic environment, public spaces and infrastructureSupporting sustainable business growth and diversificationEmpowering communitiesThe plan is the first major piece of work led by the new convener of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, James Stuart.As managing director of Entrepreneurial Scotland and former chief executive of the Royal Yachting Association, James Stuart, brings a wealth of experience in sport, recreation and tourism to the role at the National Park.The priorities set out in the Partnership Plan have been developed to tackle key issues within the National Park such as an ageing and declining population, improving infrastructure and public spaces, supporting sustainable business growth and empowering communities to have more say in decisions affecting