“Approval of Lomond Banks Development Celebrated by Loch Lomond Conservation Group”

On Wednesday 21 May, 2025, the Scottish Government’s Reporter made a decision to approve the planning appeal against the National Park’s refusal of an outline application for a £43 million tourist and leisure development in Balloch, located at the southern end of Loch Lomond. The long-established conservation charity, Friends of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs, has shown great support for this decision.

The development proposed includes the restoration of two disused historic buildings, the construction of two hotels, 125 self-catering lodges and apartments, and various leisure, catering, and retail facilities.

John Urquhart, Chair of Friends of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs, expressed their satisfaction with the decision, stating that it will help regenerate Balloch and unlock its potential as a high-quality gateway to Loch Lomond. The Reporter’s assessment, which spans 80 pages, has effectively debunked the reasons given by objectors and the National Park planners for refusing the development. It was also noted that the previous historical use of the West Riverside site for a rail link, extensive railway sidings, and a caravan park should not be disregarded.

James Fraser, former Chairman of Friends of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs, who led the Friends’ case at various stages of the application and appeal, praised the collective effort of conservation, heritage, and access groups and individuals for this successful outcome. He also mentioned that the development was much needed and that it was located in an area designated for tourism and recreation development for over four decades.

John Urquhart also highlighted the issue of the proposed “Low Road” option by Transport Scotland to upgrade the A82 north of Tarbert. This option would result in major traffic diversion and delay, as well as extensive damage to ancient woodlands and beautiful loch shore scenery. He urged those who claim to want to “Save Loch Lomond” to focus their efforts on challenging this plan instead of opposing the Lomond Banks development, which only impacts less than 80 metres of previously developed loch frontage.

It is worth noting that the Lomond Banks development is located near the Loch Lomond Shores retail crescent, the historic PS Maid of the Loch and Winch House, and the Park Authority’s Duncan Mills Slipway & Building. On the other hand, the proposed A82 upgrade would carve up 8km of sensitive loch frontage on the bonnie banks north of Tarbet, causing extensive damage to ancient oak woodlands and creating giant causeways and rock cuts. Despite this, there has been no opposition from those who have been vocal about opposing the Lomond Banks development.

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