Greens attack Flamingo Land’s new Lomond bid – Daily Business

Lomond Banks promises jobs and regeneration

Scottish Greens co-leader Ross Greer has condemned Yorkshire-based theme park operator Flamingo Land for mounting a further attempt to build a £40 million leisure park at Loch Lomond.

Lomond Banks has lodged a legal challenge against the Scottish Government’s decision in February to reject the firm’s plans.

The company said it had “fundamental issues” with how government ministers reached their decision.

A government official approved the plans on appeal in June last year, but following a backlash from the public and MSPs, the recommendation to approve was dismissed.

The Scottish government said its ruling was based on “flood risk, woodland loss and wider policy conflicts” caused by the development of a waterpark, a monorail, a hotel and restaurants.

The company is now contesting the final notice of rejection issued by public finance minister Ivan McKee. It intends to take the case to the court of session.

Jim Paterson, the development director for Lomond Banks, said: “Having reviewed the Scottish ministers’ decision in detail, we believe there are fundamental issues with the way in which ministers reached their conclusion, and that it is appropriate for these to now be examined by the court.

“Lomond Banks remains a major opportunity for Balloch and the wider area, with the potential to deliver significant investment, jobs, regeneration and lasting economic benefits.”

Mr Greer said: “This desperate final roll of the dice is an insult to the community and to the thousands of people across Scotland who stepped up to save Loch Lomond. After a decade of behaviour like this, we have had more than enough of Flamingo Land and their daft schemes.

“I expect the Scottish Government to vigorously defend their decision in court.”

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