The Friends of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs recently held their Annual General Meeting (AGM) at Ross Priory in Gartocharn. The event was well-attended by members and also saw the presence of senior business figures from various establishments within the National Park, including Cameron House Hotel, The Oaktree Inn, and Luss Estates.
Leading the meeting was John Urquhart, who took on the role of Chairman at the Friends’ 2023 AGM. In his address, Urquhart provided an overview of the organization’s activities and projects, and delivered his Chairman’s Report and presentation, which included an update on planning activities within and around the National Park.
“It has been a busy year on the planning front, with six major applications currently or pending,” said Urquhart. He went on to mention the progress of various projects, such as Flamingoland’s Lomond Banks holiday and leisure development proposal, the Torpedo Range site development, and the renewable energy projects by Coriolis and Scottish and Southern Electricity. Urquhart also mentioned Strathclyde University’s plans for a photovoltaic array at Ross Priory.
The Friends, in line with their founding principles, have shown support for planning applications that would not harm the environment and would benefit the local economy. However, the pressing issue of global warming has led the organization to shift its stance on renewable energy. “Having previously argued against large scale wind turbines, we will now support applications outside the park even if the turbines can be seen within the park,” said Urquhart. He also mentioned the organization’s efforts to ensure that developers invest in the natural capital of the area within and around the National Park, and their discussions with various companies regarding potential community and environmental benefits.
In his review of the year, Urquhart highlighted the success of the Two Lochs Visitor Management project, the Young Friends work in engaging local youngsters in outdoor activities, and various heritage projects. He also mentioned the Friends’ role in financial brokering and project management of the replacement Tarbet “Faerie” Bridge, which was funded by the Dr Hannah Stirling Loch Lomond Fund.
“With a new leader at the helm, the Friends are adding another “P” for “Positive” to their existing three “Ps” – to Provide, Promote, and Protect the National Park,” said Urquhart. He also emphasized the organization’s shift towards a positive stance on renewable energy, stating that they will no longer be “NIMBYS” (Not In My Backyard), but “YIMBYS” (Yes In My Backyard), in order to protect the park.
Urquhart also expressed concern over the National Park’s lack of understanding of the importance of encouraging renewable energy in order to meet Scotland’s decarbonizing targets. The meeting concluded with the Friends’ commitment to continue their efforts in preserving the beauty and promoting the well-being of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park.
