Council postpones Go Ape decision

The Go Ape plan led to demonstrations in Pollok Park

A decision on whether to give the go-ahead to an adventure course in a public park in Glasgow has been delayed by councillors for a site visit.

The Go Ape proposal for Pollok Park was recommended for approval by planning officials, subject to conditions.

A campaign against the treetop adventure playground led to 881 objections and public protests.

Councillors will visit the site next month before hearing directly from the applicant, supporters and objectors.

Those objecting to the development include the National Trust for Scotland and Glasgow Govan MSP Nicola Sturgeon, who is the deputy first minister.

Objectors said the development would be detrimental to the area and its conservation status.

'Entirely compatible'

Campaigners claimed the plan would result in disruption, noise and vandalism and affect the quality of life for residents and local park users.

They described the consultation process as "inadequate".

Pollok Country Park was gifted to the city of Glasgow by the Maxwell family, who owned the Old Pollok Estate, and objectors said the plan breached the terms of the transfer.

Glasgow City Council has received 148 letters in support of the proposals - including a submission from Mohammad Sarwar MP.

Supporters said it would encourage children to be more active in the outdoors and give tourists another reason to visit the city.

They claimed Go Ape would encourage more people to use the park.

The adventure course would be built in the north wood, behind the Burrell Collection.

It would cater for those over 10-years-old and open between 0800 to 2100, seven days a week.

Glasgow City Council would lease the area of park to Go Ape for 21 years.

The council report, from the executive director of development and regeneration services, said: "In terms of direct planning merits, and in consideration of the recreational nature of the proposals, they are considered to represent an appropriate green belt use and would be entirely compatible with the objectives of the park."