Plans to create a new watersports hub in Balloch at the edge of Loch Lomond are being officially launched this week.

Creating a watersports centre for the loch was first put forward about two years ago after four clubs in the area teamed up.

The Loch Lomond Rowing Club, the Loch Lomond Waterski Club, the Drumchapel and Clydebank Kayak Club and the Lomond Masters Triathlon Club banded together to form the Loch Lomond Watersports Assocation and the hub idea was born.

They plan to create a centre with storage facilities, changing areas, recreational and social areas as well as launching for a range of watersports on land at the shoreline on the opposite side of Balloch Pier from the Maid of the Loch.

The association wants the watersports hub to be used by local clubs, communities and visitors and plans to offer a range of watersports for adults in children for sport, leisure or education.

David Henderson, president of the Loch Lomond Waterski Club, said Mark Claxton of the rowing club was the 'instigator’ of the centre plans.

He said: “The clubs premises, down the river next to the Vale of Leven Angling Club, are dilapidated and they needed somewhere new. Also, the Leven was getting more and more difficult to navigate because of the number of pontoons and large cruise boats there, especially when trying to train younger children.

“Of course, the waterski club has no premises at all.” As well as offering a home for the clubs it is hoped the centre, which is expected to be open daily, would be a focus for tourists and locals alike.

Mr Henderson said development was expected to be carried out in phases and currently members were busy trying to secure grants from various sources, including SportScotland.

He urged people to come along to the consultation events and open day to find out more.

All the consultation events take place at the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Headquarters building at Carrochan Road in Balloch.

The first takes place today from 2-4pm, followed by an event this evening from 6pm-8pm.

A third consultation event takes place on Thursday, June 25 from 6pm-8pm.

On Saturday, June 27, a stall will also be set up at Loch Lomond Shores 10am and 4pm and volunteers will be on hand to discuss the project.

There will be games and activities for children.

The firm organising the consultation events said public comments would help to shape the project as it develops.

These consultations are subject to any future planning application and formal representations to the local planning authority will be possible.