Lake District ‘rollercoaster theme park’ plans meet with opposition

Elterwater: local residents say the village and surrounding Langdale valley will not be able to handle the extra traffic the development would cause. Photograph: Kevin Rushby/The Guardian

Opponents are calling it a “rollercoaster theme park” that will spoil the tranquility of a “jewel in the crown of the Lake District”. For its backers, it’s an “adventure tourism experience” that will ensure a sustainable future for a historic quarry.

Even before a planning application has been submitted, the two sides are squaring up for battle.