Thousands of people have signed a petition against plans to turn a Lake District quarry into a tourist attraction.
The change.org petition was created at the weekend and by yesterday afternoon had received more than 11,000 signatures.
Started by a group called Zip Off Langdale, the petition calls on the owner of Elterwater Quarry, Burlington Stone, to stop its proposals to change into a heritage attraction.
The petition said: “Langdale and Elterwater cannot cope with increased traffic. Langdale is the jewel in the crown of the Lake District, and its natural beauty, landscapes, traditions, and tranquillity attract tourists and locals alike.
“It is not a suitable location for theme park rides.”
The page dismisses references by project bosses to electric vehicle charging points and ‘heritage interpretation’ as ‘greenwash nods’.
The quarry project, which is still in its early stages, currently includes a toboggan-style ‘Cavern Coaster’ that would take passengers through forested areas, reclaimed quarry land and culminate in an underground section through the caverns.
Visitors would be able to enjoy ‘Quarry Explorer’ high ropes courses, while vantage points would enable those not taking part to watch on.
Burlington Stone has partnered with Zip World to make its vision for the quarry a reality.
Holker Group, which owns the Kirkby-in-Furness-based stone company, has sought to emphasise the educational elements of the scheme.
“We are keen to educate people with the history of this business that we have been in for over 200 years,” he said. “It’s an immersive experience where people will move around the quarry void and quarry caverns.”
A planning application for the site is currently being developed.
