Ten areas are in the running to become Scotland's first Coastal and Marine National Park. A high-tech truck is currently touring a number of communities as part of the consultation process. The tour kicked off in Troon last week and is scheduled to continue for another 3 weeks.

The strongest candidate areas for the new park are Solway, Argyll Islands and Coast, Ardnamurchan, Small Isles and the South Skye Coast, North Skye Coast and Wester Ross, North Uist, Sound of Harris and Harris and South Lewis.

Environment and Rural Development Minister Ross Finnie said, 'There is a huge amount of interest, activity and diversity on our coasts and seas. It is crucial that coastal and marine-based activity is managed in a sustainable manner which integrates socio-economic and environmental factors for the long-term benefit of our people and natural heritage. I can give an assurance that we will be listening to all views and will take them into account before any decision about the designation of a park is made.'

The Coastal and Marine National Park will have the same broad remit as the current land-based national parks, with conservation, sustainable use, engagement with the public and the economic and social development of its communities playing a key part.

More information and video clips of all ten areas can be found on the Scottish Executive website.