121.This schedule confers on National Park authorities various functions, some of which are provided for by reference to other Acts.
122.Paragraph 1 lists three enactments which will apply to National Park authorities as they apply to local authorities as referred to in those Acts. This means that National Park authorities have the equivalent power to develop land for the benefit or improvement of the area (with the prior approval of the Scottish Ministers); they may pay subscription in respect of corporate membership of any body formed to maintain or improve rights of way; and they may acquire land for the purpose of preserving or improving the amenity of land.
123.Paragraph 2 applies section 21 and 22 of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 to National Park authorities in the same way as these sections apply to local authorities. These sections enable local authorities to provide, or secure provision of, nature reserves on any land in their area, and allow for works to be carried out on nature reserves by drainage authorities.
124.Paragraph 3 enables a National Park authority to provide, or arrange for someone else to provide, information and educational services and facilities in order to promote the understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the National Park.
125.Paragraph 4 enables a National Park authority to provide facilities and encourage visitors to the National Park for leisure purposes.
126.Paragraph 5 provides for sections 49 and 50 of the Countryside (Scotland) Act 1967 to apply to National Park authorities in the same way as it applies to local authorities. This means that National Park authorities may provide camping sites for recreational purposes, may do anything desirable in connection with providing these sites, and can provide for accommodation, meals and refreshments where existing facilities are inadequate.
127.Paragraph 6 applies certain sections of the Local Government and Planning (Scotland) Act 1982 to National Park authorities in the same way as to local authorities, enabling them to do anything necessary or desirable towards ensuring that there are facilities in the Park for recreational, sporting, cultural or social activities as they consider appropriate.
128.Paragraph 7 makes amendments to Part II of the Countryside (Scotland) Act 1967 to allow National Park authorities the same powers as local authorities and Scottish Natural Heritage for facilitating access to the countryside.
129.Paragraph 8 enables National Park authorities to carry out improvement works on waterways in the countryside for purposes of open-air recreation.
Schedule 3: Miscellaneous functions