Transport Scotland Biodiversity Strategy consultation response

This document contains the Cairngorms National Park Authority's response to the Transport Scotland Biodiversity Strategy Consultation. The Park Authority notes that the transport network within the National Park under Transport Scotland's remit includes the A9, A93, A95, the Perth-Inverness railway line, and active travel links. The response highlights the importance of linking the Biodiversity Strategy with the Cairngorms National Park Partnership Plan, especially regarding strategic investment and nature-based solutions. It also points out the lack of explicit acknowledgement of the statutory duty for public bodies to consider the Park Partnership Plan and the proposed new duty to facilitate the implementation of National Park Plans. The Park Authority suggests the Biodiversity Strategy should facilitate the delivery of Nature Networks and offers specific areas for exploration, including the removal of invasive non-native trees, enhancement of roadside vegetation, maximising the permeability of the A9 corridor for wildlife, and re-examining the use of artificial lighting.