Lake District residents have opposed plans to turn Elterwater Quarry in the Langdale valley into a ‘theme park‘ with a roller coaster-style ride and zip lines.
Zip Off Langdale has started an online petition that has been signed by more than 13,000 people at the time of writing. “We strongly believe that the national park is being developed as a theme park,” the group said.
“Langdale is the jewel in the crown of the Lake District, and its natural beauty, landscapes, traditions, and tranquillity attract tourists and locals alike,” it added.
“It is not a suitable location for theme park rides.”
The plans for an “adventure tourism experience” have been drawn up by Elterwater Quarry owner Burlington Stone, which is owned by the Holker Group.
The company has partnered with Zip World, which it said has an “admirable track record of delivering fun, activity-based attractions safely and responsibly in the heart of national parks and UNESCO World Heritage Sites”.
The proposals currently include zip lines, high ropes courses, and a toboggan-style ride that takes passengers through forested areas, reclaimed quarry land and “spectacular caverns”.
Zip Off Langdale said the area “cannot cope with increased traffic”. However, Burlington Stone said it will “create a sensible flow of visitors”.
It is also proposing a new car park at the quarry “to safely allow visitors to access the site without putting any strain on existing parking provision in the area”.
Elterwater Quarry ‘adventure park’ plans
“To ensure the quarry, its underground caverns and voids remain safe and protected; there is a need to creatively and responsibly repurpose the site,” the company said.
In a statement (via the Guardian), Burlington Stone said: “A planning application has not been submitted and exploratory work has focused on the creation of a heritage-based amenity promoting the history of the slate industry and the natural geology of the Lake District.
“Discussions have focused on vitally important topics including sustainable transport solutions, significant reduction in quarry traffic, ecology, bio-diversity, housing and employment.
“Stakeholder engagement to date has been both positive and reassuring and we continue to listen to the aspirations of numerous interest groups.”
Images: Burlington Stone
