Controversial plans to install zip wires at a Lake District reservoir were set to be refused before they were withdrawn, it has been revealed.

Treetop Trek Ltd had applied for planning permission for a £1.8m activity hub at Thirlmere.

The firm announced on Tuesday the application had been withdrawn, citing Ministry of Defence opposition to the plans as the reason.

But following a Freedom of Information request from the Friends of the Lake District, planners have published a draft report on the application which reveals that it was going to be recommended for refusal.

The Lake District National Park Authority report said: "Overall the proposals would lead to a substantial to severe adverse landscape effect and a substantial adverse visual effect taking account of the landscape characteristics of the area which are defined by a strong sense of tranquillity, remoteness and lack of development.

"The proposals would fail to follow development plan policies and guidelines for managing change in this area as well as national policy for development in protected landscapes.

"The proposals would fail to respect the significance of Thirlmere and its role in the formation of the early conservation movement.

"The proposals would result in substantial harm to the special qualities and Outstanding Universal Value of the Lake District."

It added that wires crossing the A591 would distract drivers, that they would pose a risk to low-flying aircraft training in the area and that the public benefits from the plans would not outweigh these issues.