5 December 2008

Local conservationists are calling on the National Park Authority to safeguard the natural beauty of the eastern shore of Loch Lomond from a development with they say threatens the very heart of the National Park.

The Friends of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs are concerned about plans to extend the historic Rowardennan Hotel, north of Balmaha, which will see a four-fold increase in bedrooms and the capacity of the car park rise to 69 spaces and which the Authority is expected to make a decision about on December 15th.

As well as being in the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, the area around the hotel is designated as a National Scenic Area and forms part of the Ben Lomond National Memorial Park. It is one of the most popular areas with visitors and marks the start of the ascent of Ben Lomond. However, access along the eastern shore is difficult. Buses are restricted from travelling beyond Balmaha and traffic congestion is already a problem. There are fears that not only will the development harm the natural beauty of the area, with the extended hotel being more visible from the loch and the path up Ben Lomond, but the extra traffic generated will put unsustainable demands on a road already struggling to cope.

“The eastern shore of Loch Lomond is a haven for the walker, the cyclist, the horse rider, the birdwatcher, the sailor, the canoeist and the fisherman. It is a place to unwind, to enjoy peace and the area’s world class natural and cultural heritage”, said Friends of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs Director Martin Varley,