Cumbrian firm 'Treetop Trek' unveils plans for new zip line attraction

Residents are being consulted on plans for a new zip line attraction across Thirlmere.

Cumbrian firm Treetop Trek has unveiled the plans for a new "activity hub" in a nearby forest.

The scheme is planned to feature two zip lines and an 18 km long family-friendly cycle way, located within the forest around Thirlmere, with zip lines stretching from one side of the lake to the other.

It comes just weeks after the Lake District was awarded UNESCO World Heritage Status - meaning any major schemes that will affect the local landscape will be under inspection.

A proposal for a zip wire near Glenridding a few years ago attracted major controversy, with an online petition gathering more than 1,000 signatures.

Locals feared the one-mile wire would affected the character of the tranquil Lakes District valley.

However, Treetop Trek say they are looking forward to showing the plans to the local community:

The company's Brockhole site now attracts more than 75,000 participants a year.

Treetop Trek has gone on to open two more sites - one at Ripon in North Yorkshire in 2016 and one at Heaton Park in Manchester, which was launched earlier this month.

There will be a public display with further information on the proposals next week. It takes place on Tuesday, 1 August, from 3pm to 7pm, at the Parish Hall at St John’s in the Vale.