A Loch Lomond conservation charity has voiced their support for plans to redevelop a former torpedo testing site near Arrochar.
The Friends of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs have backed a planning application that would transform the largely derelict site - which contains a torpedo testing range, a substantial steel and concrete jetty, and some smaller mooring facilities – into a tourist destination.
However, the group has laid out conditions for their endorsement, which include the plans respecting the site's wartime history and developer Ardnagal Estates Ltd giving back to the community.
John Urquhart, chair of the charity, said: "The mixed development proposals are relatively low-key and appropriate for this site. We particularly like the plans to recognise the potential of the existing berthing.
"Given the prominence and quality of its scenic location at the heart of the country's premier National Park, we would be expecting developers and planners to be agreeing on high-quality design, using materials and finishes reflecting the status of the location.
"The site’s wartime heritage should not be forgotten, and we would be looking for this to be referenced prominently within the scheme.
"In addition, we believe that businesses which benefit from the valuable natural capital of an environment have a duty to contribute towards maintaining and even enhancing that value.
"We therefore say that planning permission for such developments should be conditional on businesses contributing regularly to a ‘Community Natural Capital Benefit Fund.'"
Read more: Loch Long torpedo testing facility could be transformed
The plans would see the range turned into a visitor accommodation and leisure development.
If it is approved, the site would feature 19 holiday homes, 36 holiday lodges, a 20-bedroom budget hotel.
It is hoped the tourist destination would create around 150 jobs.
The Friends believe that this development could be beneficial to the area by helping both the residents and the economy.
John said: "Subject to these caveats, we have no objection in principle to the application.
"Indeed, we would go further and suggest that the development should be given as fair a wind as possible, as it has great potential to finally address a 'planning sore' which has been allowed to fester for far too long.
"Over the long term, handled wisely, it will add value to the area's wider natural capital, as well as helping to build Arrochar and Tarbet’s undoubted adventure tourism hub potential, providing much-needed economic support to these fragile rural communities."
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