One resident claims zip wires approval sets a ‘shameful’ planning precedent
By Debbie O’Hara, resident and a member of the Kinlochleven Zip Wire Opposition Group.
‘I was wrong to trust that officials would listen to the significant number of voices objecting to these non-essential, artificial installations proposing to operate daily, all year, over Loch Leven, around Kinlochleven and much of the area.
Eighty-four people formally objected, on material grounds, and 1,633 (presently) have petitioned, opposing with valid reasons and wanting to protect the area from inappropriate development. Residents, diaspora and concerned tourists cannot believe that this is happening here.
So troubling that business speculation on our heritage should trump this imposed risk to drivers, pedestrians, utilities and wildlife; increased traffic and CO2, landscape damage, protected species, ancient woodland, privacy of residents and tourists, impact on mental health and disability access, noise and visibility, waste management, infrastructure, unsubstantiated job promises.
The numerous stringent conditions that planning has imposed on both applications are welcome but why not just have the courage to say no?
Unbelievably, the committee chose to reject Environmental Health officers’ recommendations for reduced operational hours, showing an unprecedented disregard for the community and our visitors.
Opposers requested a site visit to emphasise the enormity to the decision-makers; this did not happen.
Years ago, our community was properly consulted on development options, following the closure of the factory.
We have always supported a balance of developments and feel that by now arts, crafts, heritage, education on conservation, the restoration or development of Mamore Lodge are things that need to be considered rather than more pseudo-sport activity.
We have the iconic environment itself and resources such as the Ice Factor, visiting events and activities to provide ample options for real and pseudo sports enthusiasts.
Why not be creative and democratic and do no harm to what makes this area a magnet for tourists from around the world?
Traditional tourists state this will end their return here. As an opposer, the most damaging aspect of this personally is the unwelcome division it has created in our community.
Whether you have lived here for generations, decades or a day, if you oppose you will individually or collectively be ridiculed and undermined by a small aggressive group of people in favour.
Developers and officials should listen to the many voices of opposition now; to progress such development shows how out of step you are with so many on this matter.
Setting this shameful planning precedent will encourage iconic landscapes be targeted for corporate exploitation across Scotland.
‘Years ago our community was properly consulted on development options’