West Riverside and Woodbank House (Lomond Banks) National Park Authority Statement & Update – Feb 2026

Media Statement: 24th Feb 2026

Heather Reid, Convenor of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority, said: “In September 2024, our Board voted unanimously to refuse the Lomond Banks planning application. Today, Scottish Ministers confirmed their decision to dismiss the appeal against that decision. This means the National Park Authority’s refusal of planning permission in principle stands.

“We very much welcome this decision, which largely vindicates and aligns with key conclusions reached by both our Planning Officers’ recommendation and our Board in its unanimous refusal of this application. It also provides welcome clarity as to how National Planning Framework 4 policies on flooding, woodland protection and biodiversity should be applied. This is a successful outcome that recognises the statutory aims of the National Park and supports the long-term vision for the National Park set out in our National Park Partnership Plan – a vision where people and nature not only coexist, but thrive together.

“Our Planning Officers will now review the Ministers’ decision in full and consider all accompanying report details. There remains a six-week period during which the applicant or a third party may seek a legal challenge to the decision. Meanwhile, our long-term commitment to working with the local community in Balloch continues, ensuring their voices and priorities help shape future land use, including through the current preparation of its Local Place Plan and the Balloch Pierhead Improvement Action Plan.”

 

Full detail on the case is available via the DPEA website.

View previous updates regarding this application on our Major Planning Applications page.