Overview
- Ministers dismissed the appeal and refused planning permission in principle in a nine-page decision published this week.
- The ruling points to substantial flood risk, permanent ancient woodland loss, policy conflicts, and the site’s sensitive national park location.
- Officials acknowledged significant socio-economic benefits but concluded they did not override the identified conflicts with the development plan.
- The £40m proposal for Balloch featured more than 100 holiday lodges, two hotels, a water park, a monorail, and over 300 parking spaces.
- Campaigners and local politicians welcomed the outcome, while the developer voiced strong disappointment and said it will review options, including a potential Court of Session appeal.