Politicians say: We’ll fight your corner

Once the groups from Bridge of Allan and Dunblane had converged on the hill, they were addressed by some of the politicians there.

Stirling MP Stephen Kerr thanked the opponents for their efforts to defend the greenspace and the identities of Bridge of Allan and Dunblane as two separate communities.

He said that although the issue was devolved to the Scottish Government, it would not stop him talking out about it and fighting the corner of those who object to the proposal.

The Tory MP added:“The turnout is fantastic and shows the strength of the belief in the local community that Park of Keir is completely the wrong location for this development.

“We all support the concept of a tennis academy but there is no need for it to destroy pristine greenbelt land, and the distinct boundaries of Dunblane and Bridge of Allan.

“Campaigners have fought against the plans for years, and the spirit they’ve shown shows that they aren’t going to give up and accept the Scottish Government’s complete disregard for local democracy.”

Mark Ruskell MSP insisted there was still every likelihood the development would be deemed“economically unviable”and not proceed. He said:“It’s great to see so many people getting behind those who have spent years fighting this. It’s a real show of support – heartwarming really.

“This [Park of Keir] is a special place to so many people – some of whom have been trying to protect it for 30 years.

“This whole process is going to take a long time to work through. It could be years. There’s still a long way to go.”

Fellow MSP Alexander Stewart said: “There is no doubt that the Scottish