THE team behind Lomond Banks, the proposed new £40 million tourist development on the banks of Loch Lomond, say they ‘remain encouraged’ by the community engagement, following a second round of consultations.
From 22nd November to 10th of December, the local community and other interested parties had the opportunity to provide feedback on current proposals. More than 70 people attend a face-to-face event at Lomond Parish church to view the plans and question representatives from Flamingo Land, development architects, and planners.
Local councillors also accepted an invitation for a meeting to discuss the plans and were given time to share their vision for the project, taking on board local feedback to help shape the development.
Throughout the two consultation periods, more than 1,250 members of the public have engaged with the consultation portal on the Lomond Banks website, whilst 150 signed up for online interactive meetings, including a business stakeholder event and public consultation session.
Jim Paterson, development director for the Lomond Banks project, said, “Having two consultation periods has not only allowed us to showcase the Lomond Banks development and the benefits we believe it will bring to the area, both for the economy and residents, but it has helped create an open dialogue with the community so that we can take on-board constructive feedback, dispel some of the myths regarding the site and provide reassurances that Lomond Banks will be respectful and in-keeping with the local environment.
“We believe our £40million investment in Balloch will not only create a world class, eco-tourism destination, but that it will bring jobs to the area, boost the local economy and provide a strong and sustainable development that the community will be proud of across future generations.
“Working closely with the community and key stakeholders to help shape our plans for Lomond Banks has been a key priority for us and we have been pleased with the level of engagement over the past few months. We thank everyone who has provided feedback so far, it has been invaluable as we look to finalise our plans ahead of the planning submission.”
With the consultation periods now over, members of the local community can still share feedback and opinions via the Lomond Banks community lead, Fiona Robertson – community@lomondbanks.com. Further information and FAQs can be found at www.lomondbanks.com.
