THE developer behind a controversial £40m tourism development on the shores of Loch Lomond has welcomed an updated positioning statement from a major organisation.
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) said that it would review its objection to the plans, should the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority confirm the categorisation of the land as being 'previously developed'.
As previously reported, SEPA originally objected to the plans in August last year, pointing towards a 'seriious flood risk' to a large area of the proposed site.
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Now, Lomond Banks have said this change in the process heralds final submissions from statutory consultees.
It follows more than two years of consultations, liaison with the community, shaping the plans to meet the needs of the local area and complying with the relevant National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4) policies, which were recently introduced.
The original plans, withdrawn in 2019, for what was then a £30m project sparked a record 60,000 objections, which campaigners say made it the most unpopular application in Scottish history.
But opponents to the revised plans say the number of objections has now surpassed that figure.
To date, the dedicated 'Save Loch Lomond' portal has generated more than 80,000 objections which the Scottish Greens say makes it the most objected-to plan in Scottish history.
The blueprint for the massive holiday complex includes a 60-bedroom hotel, a water park, a monorail, more than 100 lodges, a watersports hub, restaurants, a craft brewery and pub and external activity areas for events.
While developers are no longer proposing to build on the ancient woodland at Drumkinnon Wood, the updated plans still qualify as a major development.
READ MORE: Objections to controversial Lomond Banks still open to people, confirms MSP
Lomond Banks says that if the park authority considers that a 'previously developed' exception applies, SEPA would lift its current objection but withheld its right to review further at detailed planning stages.
Jim Paterson, development director for Lomond Banks, said: “We are encouraged by SEPA’s considered response.
"It highlights that should the National Park Authority determine the land use classification of West Riverside and Station Square as a previously used site, where the Local Development Plan has identified a need to bring it into positive use and it complies with the exceptions criteria of NPF4 Policy 22a – Flood Risk and Water Management, then it has no objection to the principle of development at West Riverside and Station Square.
“Should this 'in principle' planning application be approved, the final numbers, scale and location of structures within all areas of the Lomond Banks proposal would be subject to further scrutiny by SEPA and all statutory consultees at the detailed planning application stage.
"Further detailed assessments, including flood risk, will help define the exact details for West Riverside and Station Square.
“This correspondence also signifies the end of the statutory consultation period.
"We have worked diligently to ensure we have provided ample evidence to support the proposal’s compliance and anticipate the National Park’s formal classification in due course.
It's understood that the park authority is now working towards reaching a decision on the application.
Mr Paterson continued: "As we reach this final stage, we believe our proposal will not only revitalise the gateway to Loch Lomond but offer a wider boost to existing businesses that already operate here and provide numerous opportunities for those keen to work with a progressive and forward-thinking employer.
"As such, Lomond Banks is committed to being an active and responsible participant within the Balloch business community for many years to come.”
For more information and the plans on Lomond Bank visit lomondbanks.com.
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