A CHARITY has given its backing to the controversial plans for a £40 million tourism development at the southern end of Loch Lomond.

Helensburgh and District Access Trust (HADAT) says that there is a "strong synergy" between the charity and Flamingo Land developers as they commit to highlight the importance of two trail paths which run through the proposed development.

The Lomond Banks’ team has agreed that should planning be granted, the walkway areas going through the development would be maintained and enhanced signage and waymarking detailing its involvement in the routes would also be incorporated.

Flamingo Land has previously promised that all areas of West Riverside, Drumkinnon Bay and woodland, and indeed the estate surrounding Woodbank House, will remain fully accessible throughout the long-term future of the development if planning permission is granted.

READ MORE: Loch Lomond conservation charity throws its weight behind controversial £40m Flamingo Land plans

Jim Paterson, development director for Lomond Banks, said: “We are delighted to welcome the support of the Helensburgh and District Access Trust.

“Our commitment is that Lomond Banks will be open and accessible to all 24/7, for all to enjoy.

"To be absolutely clear, no time limit has been placed on this commitment - it’s a long-term ambition.

"We are steadfast in our vision to integrate with the Balloch and wider Dunbartonshire community and we hope by reaffirming our commitment regarding access, and our pledges in relation to supporting and celebrating these Great Trails, that we are evidencing this."

Both The Three Lochs Way and The John Muir Way are listed by NatureScot as ‘Great Trails’ offering a high quality experience for walkers and mountain bikers exploring some of Scotland’s finest landscapes, history and heritage.

The John Muir Trail links Helensburgh in the west with Dunbar in the east where the pioneering environmentalist Muir was born. The Three Lochs Way is a 34-mile walking and mountain biking route linking towns and villages along the southwestern fringe of Scotland’s first national park.

John Urquhart, convener of Helensburgh and District Access Trust, added: “As the voluntary body which promotes and maintains the popular Three Lochs Way ‘Great Trail’ walking route, Helensburgh and District Access Trust (HADAT) is pleased to support this application.

“It is clear to us there is strong synergy between the Lomond Banks developer and HADAT as we are both involved in providing good quality access to the countryside.”

Flamingo Land's planning application is currently being scrutinised by the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority.

Although the statutory deadline for making comments was July 7, the park authority says it will continue to accept public comments until a short time before the planning officer dealing with the application submits a report to the authority's planning committee.

No firm date has yet been given for the planning committee to consider the proposals and reach a final decision, although the park authority's e-planning portal currently lists a determination deadline for the plans of Sunday, September 25.

The planning committee is due to hold its next meeting on Monday, September 12, but the Flamingo Land plans do not feature on the agenda for that meeting.

For more information on the planning submission visit lomondbanks.com