Scottish Government Approves £43 Million Development in Balloch, Loch Lomond
On Wednesday, May 21, 2025, the long-established conservation charity, Friends of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs, welcomed the decision by the Scottish Government’s Reporter to approve the planning appeal against the refusal by the National Park of an outline application for a £43 million tourist and leisure development in Balloch, located at the southern end of Loch Lomond.
The development, which includes rescuing two disused historic buildings, building two hotels, and 125 self-catering lodges and apartments, as well as associated leisure, catering, and retail facilities, has been a contentious issue for several years. However, the Scottish Government’s decision to approve the development comes after a lengthy process and thorough consideration by all parties involved.
Chair of Friends of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs, John Urquhart, expressed his support for the decision, stating that the development will help regenerate Balloch and unlock its potential as a high-quality gateway to Loch Lomond. The Reporter’s assessment, which spanned 80 pages, concluded that the development offers multiple conservation, transport linkage, and economic benefits, making it a valuable addition to the National Park.
James Fraser, past Chairman of Friends of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs, who led the organization’s case during various stages of the application and appeal, also praised the decision. He described it as a “great result” and commended the efforts of all those involved in supporting the development.
The Reporter’s assessment also addressed the objections raised by various groups and individuals, including the National Park planners. He dismissed their arguments and accepted that the previous historical use of the West Riverside site, which included a rail link, extensive railway sidings, and a 70-berth caravan park, should not be disregarded. He recognized that the site, despite some reclamation works, still contains pockets of polluted land due to its former industrial uses.
Urquhart also took the opportunity to call attention to another pressing issue in the area, stating that those who are truly concerned about the conservation of Loch Lomond should focus their efforts on challenging Transport Scotland’s plans to upgrade the A82 north of Tarbert. He highlighted that the proposed “Low Road” option would cause significant traffic diversion and delay, as well as extensive damage to ancient woodlands and beautiful loch shore scenery. Urquhart pointed out that this impact is far greater than the development in Balloch, which only covers less than 80 meters of previously developed loch frontage.
In conclusion, Friends of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs expressed their satisfaction with the Scottish Government’s decision and their commitment to working with the developer and other stakeholders to ensure the conservation and other benefits of the development are maximized. The organization also called on the public to turn their attention towards the A82 upgrade, which they believe poses a greater threat to the conservation of Loch Lomond.
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