Five sites across Scotland have been earmarked for the park

Environment Minister Ross Finnie said it was vital to receive a broad range of opinion on the new park.

Scottish Natural Heritage has earmarked five preferred locations, including parts of Argyll, Wester Ross, Skye, the Outer Hebrides and the Solway Firth.

Speaking in Perth, Mr Finnie said there was a "huge amount of interest".

The executive said a marine park would aim to conserve and enhance natural and cultural heritage, while promoting access, economic and social development and the sustainable use of natural resources.

SNH has said more than half the country's coastline would fit the bill and it submitted five preferred locations for the park.

They are the Solway Firth; the Argyll Islands and coast; Ardnamurchan, the Small Isles and the south Skye coast; the north Skye coast and Wester Ross; and North Uist, the Sound of Harris, Harris and South Lewis.

There is a huge amount of interest, activity and diversity in our coasts and seas Ross Finnie Environment Minister

Addressing the Scottish Coastal Forum Conference on Tuesday, Mr Finnie said he hoped a wide range of opinion would be expressed.

"There is a huge amount of interest, activity and diversity in our coasts and seas," he said.

"It is crucial that coastal and marine-based activity is managed in a sustainable manner which integrates socio-economic and environmental factors for the long-term benefit of our natural heritage and people.

"That is why I want to encourage all communities and stakeholders, including the inshore fishery management groups, to take part in the consultation we are announcing today.

"I can give an assurance that we will be listening to all views and will take all of them into account before any decision about the designation of a park is made."