Over 22,000 people have signed a petition against plans to turn a Lake District quarry into a tourist attraction.
Campaigners claim the proposal for Elterwater Quarry would transform it into a theme park – it would create traffic chaos.
The plans are in their initial stages – a planning application is being drawn up at the moment – but it has been revealed that it will include a rollercoaster-type ride and high ropes course.
The owners said: “Elterwater Quarry has a rich slate quarrying and mining heritage dating back to at least the middle of the 19th century. Throughout its life as a quarry, it has been worked by generations of local quarrymen, who all have stories to share of their time there. We want to help them tell their stories.”
The petition has been launched by a group called Zip Off, who also protested against plans for a zipwire attraction around the Thirlmere reservoir in 2017.
Protestors said: “Langdale is the jewel in the crown of the Lake District, and its natural beauty, landscapes, traditions, and tranquility attract tourists and locals alike. It is not a suitable location for theme park rides, and there’s no accommodation for their staff.”
They are concerned that Burlington Stone has entered into a partnership with the Welsh-based adventure company Zip World – which recently bought TreeTop Treks at Brockhole – and said the extra traffic generated by an attraction would cause mayhem on the roads.
Burlington Stone said: “We will create a sensible flow of visitors. We are also proposing a new car park at the quarry to safely allow visitors to access the site without putting any strain on existing parking provision in the area. It is hoped this facility might also provide relief to existing problems in and round Elterwater village. In addition, there will be facilities for electric car charging as well as areas for bicycle storage.
“As a business already operating in the Lake District National Park we are aware of the long-standing traffic problems that exist, especially during peak visitor periods. We have started early discussions with key stakeholders to help us to develop a strategy for sustainable transport. Ceasing quarry operations will, in itself, remove vehicles – especially LGVs – from the local road network.”
But Zip Off said: “Langdale and Elterwater cannot cope with increased traffic, and extra shuttle buses between the Brockhole and Elterwater Zip World sites. The major new car park in Elterwater are contrary to World Heritage Site aims and sustainability.”
Burlington Stone said the development would boost the local economy and pledged to use local suppliers where possible during construction and the site’s operation.
It said Zip World’s existing attractions in North Wales had added over £251 million to the local economy between 2016 and 2018.
