Scottish Government reporter recommends Flamingo Land appeal approval
A report released on Friday, May 16, by the Scottish Government's Planning and Environmental Appeals Division (DPEA) has given notice that the reporter in charge of the case is minded to allow their appeal.
In September 2024, the Yorkshire-based theme park operator, Flamingo Land Ltd, had their planning permission in principle rejected after all 14 board members of the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs Planning Authority.
The £40m proposals could create more than 100 holiday lodges, two hotels, a waterpark, a monorail, 372 car parking spaces, shops, and more on the site called 'Lomond Banks'.
Planning permission in principle will be subject to a legal agreement being reached.
The final decision has therefore been deferred for the period detailed in the Notice of Intention to allow the conclusion of that agreement.
The 80-page document gives 417 reasons why the reporter is minded to grant the appeal.
The new target date for a DPEA decision is November 27, 2025.
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.'
Meanwhile, 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
"Let us be clear: this fight is far from over. The gloves are off.
"We are calling on ALL our followers and supporters to stand with the Loch Lomond South Community Development Trust. Now, more than ever, we need to show those in power that we will not take this decision lying down.
"In response, Balloch and Haldane Community Council is calling an emergency meeting (date/venue to be announced soon) of all key stakeholders and political representatives. The purpose of the meeting is to develop a coordinated strategy to challenge the Reporter's recommendation and pressure the Scottish Government to reverse this decision."
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