This step in the process heralds final submissions from statutory consultees following over two years of consultations, liaison with the community, shaping the plans to meet the needs of the local area and complying with the relevant National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4) policies, which were recently introduced.

The letter from 5 June highlighted that if the Planning Authority considers that an exception applies, SEPA would lift its current objection on the PPiP (Planning Permission in Principle) proposals but withheld its right to review further at detailed planning stages.

Development director for Lomond Banks, Jim Paterson, said: “We are encouraged by SEPA’s considered response. It highlights that should the National Park Authority determine the land use classification of West Riverside and Station Square as a previously used site, where the Local Development Plan has identified a need to bring it into positive use and complies with the exceptions criteria of NPF4 Policy 22a – Flood Risk and Water Management, then it has no objection to the principle of development at West Riverside and Station Square.

“Should this In Principle Planning Application be approved, the final numbers, scale and location of structures within all areas of the Lomond Banks proposal would be subject to further scrutiny by SEPA and all statutory consultees at the detailed planning application stage. Further detailed assessments including flood risk will help define the exact details for West Riverside and Station Square.

“This correspondence also signifies the end of the statutory consultation period. We have worked diligently to ensure we have provided ample evidence to support the proposal’s compliance with NPF4 Policy 22a exceptions criteria and anticipate the National Park’s formal classification in due course.”

Now in its final stages ahead of a determination from Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park following a ‘no objection’ from West Dunbartonshire Council (WDC), and recent support from the leader of WDC, Martin Rooney, the proposed £40m sustainable tourism destination would bring significant economic investment and considerable jobs to Balloch.

With all items now responded to, it is expected that the National Park will consider its position and work towards reaching a determination on the Planning Permission in Principle application.

The proposals, which have been reshaped considerably since they were first submitted back in 2017, have been supported by many local business groups and organisations including the Dumbarton Chamber of Commerce, the Maid of the Loch, Sweeneys Cruises, Friends of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, as well as Helensburgh and District Access Trust. These groups recognise the fantastic opportunity, such as inward investment in the local area, could mean for the surrounding community and beyond.

Alongside construction, Flamingo Land Resort said it has a strong record in fair working, as well as providing excellent education and development opportunities through training for its team and the site at Lomond Banks would be no different, with a commitment on fair working, educational opportunities for local people and establishing a local supply chain to benefit the wider business community through its Lomond Promise.

Once open, the tourist destination would require a diverse range of employees, with potential roles available across entry-level positions to highly skilled vacancies, covering full-time, part-time and seasonal posts for the area.

Jim concluded: “As we reach this final stage, we believe our proposal will not only revitalise the gateway to Loch Lomond but offer a wider boost to existing businesses that already operate here and provide numerous opportunities for those keen to work with a progressive and forward-thinking employer. As such, Lomond Banks is committed to being an active and responsible participant within the Balloch business community for many years to come.”