Flamingo Land wins appeal over Lomond Banks – Daily Business

A controversial leisure development at Loch Lomond has won the support of the Scottish Government reporter who has overturned a local decision to reject the £40 million plan.

Yorkshire-based theme park operator, Flamingo Land wants to build 100 holiday lodges, two hotels, a waterpark, monorail and shops on a sensitive site near Balloch.

Thousands of opponents joined a campaign to stop the proposal, but the developer appealed after its plans were thrown out last September.

The reporter in charge has now given a “positive notice of intention” to approve planning permission in principle which will be subject to a legal agreement being reached.

The 80-page document gives 417 reasons why the reporter is minded to grant the appeal.

Jim Paterson, development director for Lomond Banks, said: “This is a real milestone moment for the Lomond Banks vision, and has been a long time in the making. 

“Our proposals have been informed by more than two years of positive engagement with the local community and key stakeholders.

“At the heart of our plans is a commitment to sustainable investment, local jobs, and a long-term partnership with the area, backed by our legally binding Lomond Promise to ensure the future prosperity of Balloch and beyond.

“We are delighted by the decision made by the Scottish Government reporter today. As we look beyond today’s decision, we remain committed to being a strong and valued contributor to the local economy and we look forward to progressing with our proposals as we now consider detailed planning.” 

Balloch and Haldane community council, which has been campaigning against the plan, say the “fight is not over.”

A spokesperson said: “The Fight for Loch Lomond Is Not Over…The gloves are off.”

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