Scotland has a theme park deficit. In fact, there’s only really one, and it’s solely famous for almost killing some teenagers a few years ago. For too long, Scottish thrill-seekers have been forced past the border to get their kicks, but this could change soon.
Yorkshire theme park Flamingo Land has been trying to get their plans to build a new resort in Loch Lomond, called Lomond Banks, approved for the past eight years. Originally granted access to land near the loch in 2016, local pushback has meant that the Scottish expansion has been put on pause.
A water park and spa would make up the central attractions of Lomond Banks, but it would also feature a swimming pool, dozens of loch-view lodges and hotel rooms, on-site restaurants, and of course, a pub. The different areas of Lomond Banks would be linked up by a monorail, which is inarguably a pretty cool way to get around.
Opponents of the development believe it would be overly disruptive to nearby communities, but the project’s development director, Jim Paterson, said he believes it will, ‘bring considerable economic and social benefit to the region,’ and that the park has, ‘pledged to not only be a good neighbour, a responsible employer and green operator.’
Due to ongoing disputes with local residents, we don’t currently have a date for opening or beginning construction. Hopefully an agreement can be made so that our friends across the border can enjoy some semblance of an amusement park where they don’t come close to meeting their maker on a family day out.
Staycations with Time Out
We at Time Out know about good holidays. If you’re currently planning your next UK break and need somewhere that’s already open, we’ve got you covered. Why not try one of Time Out’s favourite things to do in the country, or embark on one of these top rated Great British road trips? For something a bit more out there, have a look at these cool islands scattered across England, or check out these haunted places you can visit.
Did you see that this huge £200 million resort is coming to the Peak District?
Plus: This remote Scottish island is being taken over by feral cats.
Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out UK newsletter for the latest UK news and the best stuff happening across the country.