Famers and estate owners and managers are opposing an MSP's plan to double the size of a regional park.

NFU Scotland and Scottish Land and Estates have spoken out against proposals to extend the boundary of the Pentland Hills Regional Park amid fears that the as yet publicly un-costed plan will lead to an unfair and unnecessary burden on farmers and land managers in the area.

The proposal in a Scottish Parliamentary Private Members’ Bill put forward by Christine Grahame, Midlothian South, Tweeddale and Lauderdale SNP MSP is to extend the size of the park to include most of the Pentland Hills range.

Supporters say the plan would protect the environment and minimise developments such as wind farms.

Farmers claimed that over recent years, funding and resources for the existing park have been under increasing strain as local authority budgets have been tightened and services cut.

With local authorities warning that additional funding will not feature in future budgets, it is claimed the Bill has overlooked the funding requirements that an extended park will require.

It is also claimed that, if passed, the Bill could lead to the incorporation of approximately 20 further farm businesses unequipped to take on the unofficial stewardship role bestowed upon them to finance essential maintenance, including repairs to paths and fencing.

Kerry Barr, NFU Scotland’s regional manager, said responsible access is already available and added: “The union is greatly supportive of the public enjoying the countryside and using the land for leisure pursuits.

"However, it is essential that land taken for public access is maintained so that it can also remain productive for agricultural use."

Anne Gray, of Scottish Land and Estates, described as the voice that represents those who own land and rural businesses, said: “There is no provision for funding and resources at this stage and therefore all that will change is a line on a map."

Among those in favour of the extension are Scottish Natural Heritage, the Mountaineering Council for Scotland and the Association for the Protection of Rural Scotland lobby group.

SNH claims extending the boundary would help give locals access to activities that would have health benefits,

Ms Grahame said finances would be set in time and added: "Not all farmers agree with the NFU and I know some are very supportive of my Bill. "

She added: "The Pentland Hills are already extensively used in the southern part and although my Bill does not impose financial duties on any council or others my Bill I hope will act as a catalyst to bring fresh thinking into how the hills are managed.

"This is already happening because I too want to see more sustainable management of the hills which will benefit famers."