Plans by theme park operator Flamingo Land to build a resort on the banks of Loch Lomond in Scotland have been recalled by the Scottish government.
Previously, the proposals for a £40 million resort called Lomond Banks were set to be approved by ministers.
This came after the plans were rejected by the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park authority board in September, a decision appealed by Flamingo Land.
Now, the Scottish government’s Minister for Public Finance, Ivan McKee, has said he will recall the plans.
“Appeal should be determined at a national level”
In a statement (via The Herald), he said: “I have decided to recall the Lomond Banks appeal as the proposed development raises issues of national significance in view of its potential impact on Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.
“This means that the appeal should be determined at a national level.”
The controversial development has faced opposition over issues like flood risk, increased traffic, woodland loss, and the impact on local businesses.
Scottish Green MSP Ross Greer, who opposed the Flamingo Land project, welcomed the decision to recall the plans.
He said: “This is the right move by ministers and a huge victory for the 50,000 people who joined the Scottish Greens’ campaign for the decision to be recalled.
“I am glad that Ivan McKee has decided to do the right thing and use his power to intervene to protect Loch Lomond from destruction.”
He added, “The evidence of the damage it would do to one of Scotland’s most iconic locations is overwhelming.”
The development was expected to be approved after the Scottish government reporter in charge of the case revealed an intention to back the plans in May.
Controversial development faces opposition
Scottish Labour’s deputy leader Jackie Baillie said in response to the latest announcement: “It is not right that a single reporter was allowed to overrule the national park authority’s unanimous decision to reject the bid of the Flamingo Land resort.
“This decision requires proper democratic oversight and I am pleased ministers have finally accepted our calls and agreed to step in.”
Images courtesy of Lomond Banks
