A VILLAGE vote will determine whether a developer submits a controversial planning application for a zip wire attraction in the heart of the Lakes.

More than 100 residents from Glenridding and the surrounding area packed into the village hall for a heated public meeting to discuss plans by Brockhole-based Treetop Trek's to create four, mile-long zip wires in the valley.

Guest speakers Richard Leafe, the Lake District National Park Authority's chief executive, and Treetop Trek director Mike Turner received a frosty reception from residents who opposed the plan.

Graeme Connacher, Glenridding resident and Ullswater Steamers worker, said the village was at risk of turning into something akin to "Alton Towers".

"I am frankly appalled at this proposal and it is my belief that many folk who come now will not if this goes ahead," he said.

He added that the village would suffer from the increased traffic and impact of "screaming" which would affect the tranquility that appeals to current visitors.

An on-line petition objecting to the idea had already received more than 2,000 signatures, he said.

But Mr Turner, who has not yet made an application to the LDNPA, slammed the accusation that zip wires were 'fun fair rides' with a 'cheap thrill.' He said the venture would provide jobs and was likely to grow the number of visitors to the area.

Mr Connacher said there was unrest over the LDNPA's ownership of areas of the proposed development site, adding there was a "distrust" of the authority and residents were "frightened" - a view echoed by other speakers.

And John Gaye, of Glenridding, told the meeting that the proposal contravened LDNPA's policy regarding installations in the open countryside.

But Richard Leafe said the LDNPA had not taken a decision to host the zip wire despite having "entertained" the idea and should a plan be submitted, it would go through the same legal processes as any application.

A for and against community vote began on Friday (Dec 5) and draws to a close tomorrow (Dec 12). Every resident will have received a voting slip which they should hand in to Sharmans shop, Glenridding, or Patterdale Post Office.

Mr Turner said he would honour the result and take no further action.