Harris residents back national park plans

The ballot saw more than 730 people on Harris in the Western Isles vote in favour of the move, with 311 against.

Those backing the designation say it would address the declining population of the island by creating jobs and attracting new residents.

However, opponents argue it could restrict other economic developments.

Scotland's other national parks cover the Cairngorms and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs.

The Scottish Government will decide on the next steps for the Harris proposal.

A spokesman said: "Community empowerment, and the principle of enabling local people to help shape their own destiny, is wholly supported by the Scottish Government.

"That said, the current tight spending round, which runs until 2011, does not contain the additional money which would be required to designate Harris as a National Park.

"There are also strict conditions which need to be met before an area can be designated as a national park.

"We look forward to learning more about the Harris proposals in due course."

Western Isles MSP Alasdair Allan said: "Obviously some islanders had concerns about the implications of national park status and I would be hopeful that negotiations with the government would respect and engage with all of the community regardless of how they voted.

"However, the people of Harris have sent out a very clear signal today that they want new life and prosperity for one of Scotland's most fragile island communities."