Theme park operator Flamingo Land has been selected as the preferred developer for a £30 million holiday resort project in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park.

The company was appointed by Scottish Enterprise to take forward proposals for its 20 hectare site at West Riverside in Balloch.

Potential proposals for the scheme includes building lodges, a boutique hotel, a hostel and glamping pods, as well as a range of family-based attractions and restaurants.

Scottish Enterprise said the development will look to build on the success of Loch Lomond Shores, a nearby popular tourism destination.


Derek McCrindle, Director of Growth at Scottish Enterprise, said: "Since we developed Loch Lomond Shores in 2002 within Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park it has seen significant success. Building on this, West Riverside in Balloch has the potential to generate even more long term economic benefits for Scotland not only through job creation but by securing the National Park as a key international tourism destination.

"Over the next year the company will undertake a comprehensive range of site investigations and bring forward outline plans for consultation with the local community. By developing the proposal via this engagement, it is anticipated that the company will submit a formal planning application at the earliest opportunity and, subject to approval, works will start on the first phase immediately thereafter."

Gordon Gibb, chief executive of Flamingo Land, added: "We are excited by the prospect of creating a resort in the National Park that recognises the importance and sensitivity of the site.

"We look forward to working with Scottish Enterprise, the National Park Authority and the local community of Balloch as we work up our detailed proposals for the site."

(LM)