Scottish environmentalists call for marine national park

In an attempt to better manage its coastline, the Scottish Wildlife Trust (SWT) has called for two areas recommended for the UK's first coastal and marine national parks to be combined into one huge conservation area.

The SWT believes that the coral reefs, lagoons and marine habitats in the Argyll Islands and Coast area as well as the Ardnamurchan Small Isles and South Sky Coast area would be better protected if they formed one large park off Scotland's west coast.

SWT's policy and campaigns manager Jonny Hughes said: "Marine life does not recognise lines on maps – it makes sound ecological sense to create on park large enough to cover an area stretching from the south Skye coast down to Islay and Jura."

Coastal tourism contributes around £375 million annually to the Scottish economy as it is a haven for active tourists interested in windsurfing, sailing and canoeing.

But those who wish more of a laid back approach to their holiday can partake in blissful cruises along the coast, which stop at plush hotels and are ideal for wildlife watching and walks inland.

It is hoped that the giant marine park will be established by 2008.