Community campaign to save park

The Go Ape site will be near the Burrell Collection in Pollok Park

A public meeting has heard objections to plans to develop a leisure attraction in the heart of a public park in Glasgow.

Go Ape is planning to build a treetop adventure trail in part of Pollok Park.

Objectors said the project is a step too far in Britain's Best Park and criticised the consultation process.

Go Ape said "exaggerated scare stories" were circulating. Glasgow City Council said it was trying to provide more choice.

Robert Booth, executive director of land and environmental services, said: "Our aim was to ensure we had a range of facilities and attractions in the park that would engage with all sections of the community.

"We're providing another choice for two million people who visit the park every year."

Quiet park

The council will lease part of the park for an eventual return of 8% of Go Ape's gross turnover.

Some local residents in the south side of Glasgow have launched the Save Pollok Park campaign, objecting to the development.

Bill Fraser, of the campaign group, said: "We think it's wrong in a city park.

"Every other Go Ape facility is in a forest park and it's unobtrusive.

"We're talking about a very small park in forest terms and the last quiet piece of Pollok Park.

"The main objection we have to this is the so-called consultation the council undertook last year. We don't think this was fair."

He added: "It's simply a step too far."

The assault course will cost £20 to £25 per person.

Jerome Mayhew, of Go Ape, said before the meeting: "There has been a lot of miss information put out to the public about what a Go Ape course is and its impact on Pollok Park.

"We are happy to have the opportunity to explain directly to local residents exactly what we are proposing at Pollok Park and to answer any questions."

Pollok park was voted Best in Britain last year.

It is already home to the Burrell Collection and Pollok House.

Pollok Park was gifted to Glasgow City Council by the Maxwell family.

A council vote on Go Ape is expected within a fortnight.