PLANS have been submitted to install a floating pontoon for commercial boat operators on a Loch Lomond shoreline.
Luss Estates has lodged an application for planning permission to the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority for an upgraded structure in Luss, next to Shore Cottage.
The current fixed concrete jetty, in front of the Loch Lomond Rescue Boat base, would be removed and replaced with a new and longer floating pontoon.
A supporting statement for the application, by agents The Hay Partnership, says: “Immediately in front of these two properties [Shore Cottage and the rescue boat base] is an elderly concrete jetty that has for a few decades been used by a local boat hiring company and the rescue service, whose slipway lies adjacent to the jetty.
“In recent years, however, the boat operator has retired and given up his lease, and the Estate is now in discussions with another similar commercial boat operator.
“Being a fixed structure, the existing jetty cannot adapt to changing loch levels throughout the seasons.
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“Furthermore, it is suffering from significant undermining on both sides to the stage where it is considered potentially dangerous and as such is no longer considered suitable or safe for use and is therefore in need of replacement.
“The Estate will engage with another commercial boat operator on an annual lease basis and this will be commencing as soon as the pandemic restrictions are lifted.”
The applicants state that the proposed new jetty will provide a “much better and more practical facility” which will be beneficial for younger, older and less ambulant visitors taking the boat trips.
The supporting statement adds: “The new jetty will be longer so that it reaches deeper water levels and so remains functional when the loch levels are lower.
“The new structure will consist of a similar concrete ramp across the beach, increased from nine to 15 metres in length.
“Towards the landward end of the jetty will be gates and side fencing to prevent, or at least minimise unauthorised access outwith operating hours.
“The proposed new jetty is one that has been introduced elsewhere around the national park to good effect, it will be a much safer facility, and its visual impact has been regarded as acceptable.”
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