It was a tremendous honour for me to take up the role of convener of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park in February – and what a year it has been!

Witnessing the release of a family of beavers to their new home at Loch Lomond in January was definitely one of my 2023 highlights and I am delighted that a further two beavers have now joined them.

Beavers bring many benefits to the environment and at a time of global biodiversity crisis, we need their help.

Positive action to restore biodiversity is crucial if we are to achieve the ‘nature positive’ National Park set out in our new National Park Partnership Plan.

Residents, businesses, visitors and community groups shared their views during 2023 on what should be in the Partnership Plan and comments were received on issues including climate change, transport, jobs and housing.

I look forward to sharing the final plan in spring 2024 and to coming together to make the National Park a thriving place for generations to come.

I hope the holiday season – and the year ahead – provide you with ample opportunities to enjoy the National Park’s special landscapes.