The fate of Loch Lomond has reignited passions across Scotland, as furious campaigners, green groups and local voices unite once again to stop a controversial resort development from going ahead on its iconic shores.
The proposal, fronted by Yorkshire-based Flamingo Land, has long been mired in public opposition.
But this week, it was thrust back into the spotlight during First Minister’s Questions, as Scottish Greens co-leader Patrick Harvie issued a direct challenge to John Swinney.
Addressing the First Minister, Mr Harvie implored the SNP to intervene and recall the Government’s acceptance of Flamingo Land’s planning appeal, which critics say threatens one of Scotland’s most treasured natural landmarks.
His words echoed the rallying cries from a crowd gathered outside Holyrood earlier that day, where campaigners called on ministers to defend Loch Lomond rather than side with commercial developers.
“This is the most unpopular development in the history of the Scottish planning system,” Mr Harvie told Parliament.
“It has been opposed by the National Trust for Scotland, by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency, and by over 155,000 members of the public.
“The National Park Authority rejected it unanimously.
“What more does this Government need to hear?”
Despite the overwhelming wave of objection, the Scottish Government has so far refused to recall the appeal, prompting deep concern among environmental groups and locals alike.
While the First Minister declined to comment directly on the appeal due to its ongoing nature, Mr Harvie made clear he was not satisfied with that position.
He pointed to a decision made by Trade Minister Ivan McKee, who announced just two working days after receiving the appeal that the Government would not intervene.
That speed, Mr Harvie suggested, points to a political choice rather than a neutral process.
“There’s still time to change course,” he said.
“This decision isn’t set in stone.
“If we truly value Scotland’s natural beauty and local voices, we must act now.”
The debate grew sharper as Mr Harvie referenced past controversies, comparing the Flamingo Land plans to the 2007 approval of Donald Trump’s Aberdeenshire golf course, a development the SNP backed despite intense local opposition.
“Even Trump’s own people admitted the Government was duped,” said Harvie.
“Have we learned nothing?
“Why is this Government still backing greedy developers who see Scotland’s landscapes as something to bulldoze for profit?”
The First Minister remained tight-lipped, offering no indication that the decision would be recalled.
For campaigners, the lack of clear support from the Government is deeply disheartening.
Yet their resolve remains strong.
The fight for Loch Lomond has become more than a planning dispute.
It is now a symbol of the growing tension between environmental protection and corporate development in Scotland.
And with pressure mounting, the Government may soon have to decide which side of that line it truly stands on.
