The new Labour MP for West Dunbartonshire has given his thoughts on the controversial Flamingo Land plans at Loch Lomond ahead of a decision on the proposals being made next month.

It was confirmed in July that Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park Authority will decide whether to approve or refuse the planning application on Monday, September 16 in a public meeting.

The complex called 'Lomond Banks' was put forward by Yorkshire-based theme park operator Flamingo Land Ltd and has received more than 97,000 signatures against it in an online petition- the most for a planning proposal in Scottish history.

If approved, it could include 104 holiday lodges, two hotels, a water park and a monorail which developers say will provide employment opportunities, economic investment and become a world-class tourist destination.

Opposers say they have concerns about an increase in traffic of up to 14 more cars every second at peak times, environmental damage including flood risks and harm to local businesses.

And Douglas McAllister, who served as provost for West Dunbartonshire Council when the proposals were first brought forward, has given his thoughts on the plans.

"When I looked at the application originally, I didn't think it was particularly a good one," he said.

"Flamingo Land would certainly not have been my first choice for the area as I think we could do a lot more with the space.

"West Dunbartonshire Council [WDC] was neutral on the proposals and we felt we had a duty to do that.

"The motion that was brought forward, and supported across all parties, was to withdraw support from it."

READ MORE: Contract awarded to deliver new wheelie bins in West Dunbartonshire

McAllister also detailed the conditions laid out by WDC that the proposals will have to meet.

"The obvious concern for local residents is the congestion that could cause and WDC has made clear the park must address it if they are approving the plans," he continued.

"They also need to look at the flooding issues in the area.

"The locals are split down the middle and I completely understand both sides.

"The economic benefits need to be weighed up with the environmental and social impacts for those who live in the area."

McAllister admits he does understand some of the potential positives the proposals could bring.

However, he insists these must be balanced with the considerations of those in the community.

"I do think a Flamingo Land would help somewhere like Loch Lomond Shores which currently could do with a boost," he added.

"The economics need to be balanced with the concerns of residents.

"The current application could be better in my opinion but it is up to the national park to vote on it."