National Parks (Scotland) Act 2000.

Section 1 sets out the four aims of National Parks, including the promote sustainable use of the natural resources of the area. Section 2 sets out the criteria for considering an area for National Park status by the Scottish Ministers. After completion of procedures laid down in sections 3 to 5, the Scottish Ministers can decide to make a Designation Order setting up a National Park either in terms of the original proposal or in a modified form (sect. 6). Section 8 introduces provisions about the constitution of National Park authorities as set out in schedule 1, whereas section 9 defines the general purpose and functions of National Park authorities. Section places a duty on a National Park authority to prepare and submit a National Park Plan, which sets out its policy for the management of the National Park and the co-ordination of activities of public bodies and office-holders so far as affecting the Park. A National Park authority may enter into management agreements with a person with an interest in land, in order to ensure that its aims are met (sect. 15). Section 17 provides for a National Park authority to arrange for its functions to be carried out by a local authority on its behalf, or by another National Park authority. Section 19 places a duty on National Park authorities to use their resources economically, efficiently and effectively. Remaining sections of this Act concern mainly financial arrangements and information systems. For the purposes of the application of this Act in relation to an area that includes the sea, the Scottish Ministers may by order modify the provisions specified in section 31. (37 sections completed by 5 Schedules)