AN ONLINE petition opposing plans to turn a Lake District quarry into a tourist attraction has generated thousands of signatures.
Campaigners say Burlington Stone wants to create a 'theme park' with high ropes courses and a rollercoaster at Elterwater Quarry.
But Holker Group, which owns Burlington Stone, says its plans would see the quarry become a 'heritage attraction' that would enable visitors to learn more about the site and the slate industry.
A petition set up by 'Zip Off Langdale' has surpassed 14,000 signatures.
Many members of the public provided their thoughts via the webpage.
Brendan Malone said: "The Lake District is a national park and its beauty is based on a peaceful, natural environment. This is what attracts people to it.
"A theme park is a totally inappropriate form of development which would generate an unsustainable amount of traffic on already congested roads."
Linda Pigney said: "We are used to hearing that the Lake District should put up 'full' signs at peak holiday times. Adding something to attract even more visitors increasingly imperils the Lake District."
Simon Downing said: "This type of entertainment is not in keeping with the Lakes.
"It does not have the infrastructure to support it.
"It will destroy the natural beauty of the area."
Plans for the quarry would see a 'Cavern Coaster' set up that would take passengers through forested areas and reclaimed quarry land, culminating in an underground section through the caverns.
Visitors would also be able to enjoy 'Quarry Explorer' high ropes courses, with vantage points enabling those not taking part to watch on.
A spokesman for Holker Group said the attraction would be informative.
"We are keen to educate people with the history of this business that we have been in for over 200 years," he said.
"It's an immersive experience where people will move around the quarry void and quarry caverns."
He said Holker was 'actively looking at sustainable transport options'.
A planning application is currently being developed.
The petition can be found at https://tinyurl.com/2vttxjjz
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