High court backs plan for underground zip wire in Lake District

Controversial plans to create an underground zip wire experience in a 19th-century Lake District slate quarry have been given the go-ahead by a high court judge.

- Mark Brown North of England correspondent

Yesterday, Mr Justice Mould delivered a ruling that could end a long-running battle that has sparked debate about how people can and should experience national parks.

One international heritage body had said the plan was tantamount to creating a theme park that threatened the area's tranquillity.

But supporters pointed out that the attraction would be underground and out of sight. They also argued it was a way of welcoming a larger, more diverse group of visitors to the area.

The zip wire plan for Elterwater quarry, near Ambleside, was turned down in 2023 but then approved by planners in May 2024. The campaign group Friends of the Lake District then sought a judicial review, which led to a two-day hearing last April.