A PETITION set up in opposition to proposals to turn a Lake District quarry into a tourist attraction has won support from thousands of people.
The online document on change.org was created at the weekend and by yesterday afternoon had received more than 2,500 signatures.
The webpage, started by a group called 'Zip Off Langdale', says Burlington Stone wants to turn Elterwater Quarry into a 'theme park' with high ropes courses and a rollercoaster.
"Langdale and Elterwater cannot cope with increased traffic," says the preamble to the petition.
"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.
A spokesman said the vision was for the quarry to become a 'heritage attraction' that would 'bring out the history of the Lake District stone-quarry industry' and 'how slate has influenced the vernacular' of the national park.
"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.
The petition can be found at https://tinyurl.com/2vttxjjz
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