CONCERNS have been raised over plans to import 1,500 tonnes of quarried stone into the RSPB’s Loch Lomond nature reserve.

The Reporter previously told how a project to make nature accessible to more people at RSPB Scotland’s nature reserve was boosted by £242,800 of support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

But Lomond ward councillor Sally Page says the work will involve bringing more than 100 lorry loads of quarried stone into the reserve.

She said: “The reserve was designated more than 70 years ago and has always been billed as the ‘jewel in the crown of Scotland’s biodiversity’.

“The reserve is highly designated including Ramsar and Natura 2000 designations, which are international.

"This is a site that should be guarded at all costs against development, leaving space for nature to thrive.

“The RSPB and the National Park have approved a plan that will import 1,500 tonnes of quarried stone into the reserve - that is over 100 lorry loads.

“There will loads of wood brought in to construct board walks through the fragile bog.

“This is out-of-date conservation; destroying the natural habitat of flora, fauna, wildlife and insects to show the public what we must protect if we are to contribute to the threat of climate change, is a step backwards.”

Stuart Mearns, director place at Loch Lomond and The Trosschs National Park Authority, said: “Planning permission for this development was granted in May 2020.

“Included in the proposal and conditions of approval were measures to safeguard the special features of the site’s landscape and wildlife in keeping with the dual purpose of a National Nature Reserve.”

Paula Baker, RSPB Scotland Loch Lomond site manager said: “The construction and design of the new path has been done to minimise the impact on this important place for wildlife and we have consulted with the local community throughout.

“Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Authority granted permission back in May 2020 and we’re so delighted that thanks to support from National Lottery Heritage Fund we’re now able to start delivering this project.”