Local group proposes 'something better' after Flamingo Land recall

In September 2024, the Yorkshire-based theme park operator, Flamingo Land Ltd, had their planning permission in principle rejected by all 14 board members of the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs Planning Authority. 

However, last month, the Planning and Environmental Appeals Division (DPEA) gave notice that the reporter in charge of the case would allow the appeal for the Flamingo Land resort to be granted, subject to meeting a list of 49 conditions.

A caveat was also included that a binding legal agreement must be reached with Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park Authority over an ancient woodland segment of the site.

Now, plans for the development at Lomond Banks have been recalled by the Scottish Government, with Minister for Public Finance, Ivan McKee, saying the proposed development raises issues of “national significance”.

Balloch and Haldane Community Council and sister organisation Loch Lomond South Community Development Trust (LLSCDT) have welcomed the decision.

READ MORE: Controversial Loch Lomond Flamingo Land plans recalled

In response, LLSCDT is actively working to "shape and promote a positive, community-led alternative vision for the area—one that supports sustainable tourism, protects the environment".

The vision would also " truly benefit the people who live, work, and visit Loch Lomond".

Through the creation of a Strategic Group of stakeholders, LLSCDT is "bringing together expert voices and local perspectives to chart a different course—one that prioritises climate resilience, public access, biodiversity, and local economic benefit".

Lynne Somerville, chair of Loch Lomond South Community Development Trust, insists it is time legislation was "meaningfully upheld".

She said: "The people who live here must have a real say in the future of this place—not as an afterthought, but as equal partners.

"The overwhelming response from the community shows not only opposition to inappropriate development, but also a clear appetite for something better—something rooted in fairness, sustainability, and local benefit.

"Under the 2015 Community Empowerment Act, communities like ours are legally entitled to be heard and treated with respect in decisions that affect our land and future."

Organisations such as the National Trust for Scotland, the Woodland Trust, the Ramblers, and the Scottish Government environment watchdog, SEPA, also raised objections against the plans.