Controversial plans to create a tourism experience at a Lake District quarry have been resubmitted.
Authority member were recommended to approve the scheme, but turned it down.
The firm , which is working with Zip World on the project, estimated it could attract up to 50,000 visitors a year.
Burlington Slate wanted to use part of Elterwater Quarry at Great Langdale for heritage tourism – including zip wires in its caverns, a visitor centre and natural history trail. When the firm first revealed its plans, it provoked outrage, including an online petition against the plans signed by over 90,000 people.
Now, it has resubmitted amended plans, including a travel plan which includes initiatives to encourage sustainable travel, including people walking, cycling and using public transport to reach the site.
Zip World commissioned transport planning consultants Curtins to develop a bespoke travel plan.
It said it will provide an enhanced bus service – either by working with the current operator of the 516 service or providing a private shuttle bus. it added it was also working with Langdale Low Carbon group, led by Cumbria Tourism, on developing sustainable transport options, with a memorandum of understanding being prepared by Cumbria Tourism.
The resubmitted plan includes an ‘immersive visitor experience’ to share the heritage of mining in the area and the legacy of Burlington.
The Cavern Explorer will allow people to explore the underground quarry while fixed to the cavern walls and there are also plans for a walk with viewpoints
A visitor centre would also be created in former shed buildings.
It is estimated it would create between eight and 10 jobs, shared with the existing workforce of Zip World’s Brockhole attraction.
