The Times has reported that there are fears that the reintroduction of Lynx could scare away tourists to the area.
The proposal to reintroduce lynx to Kielder Forrest has caused concern in the Scottish Borders with fears that the animal may wonder across the Border and attack livestock in the Scottish Borders and make the area their new home.
New concerns have now been raised by the Northumberland National Park that the reintroduction may deter tourists from visiting the park.
Further concerns have been raised by farmers. There are fears that the lynx would prey on lambs and despite compensation for killed livestock, there is no compensation for abortion of lambs or vet bills from injuries sustained in an attack.
Rachael Hamilton MSP said:
‘Legitimate concerns have been raised about the proposed reintroduction for some time and we still do not have good enough answers to them.
‘Tourism and agriculture is a huge part of the Borders economy and this reintroduction now threatens both.
‘Concerns over the proposed reintroduction has to be taken seriously. It is vital that our voice in the Scottish Borders is heard and listened to. We cannot have a situation where our local economy suffers as a result of any lynx being reintroduced into the wild.