Center Parcs: Community liaison officer says planned holiday village will bring 'transformational benefits' to the Scottish Borders

The man who oversaw a community-led planning initiative which will help shape the future of Hawick says Center Parcs plans for a new 700-lodge holiday village just north of the town will bring "transformational benefits" to the Scottish Borders.

Paul Hogarth has been appointed Community Liaison Officer with the leisure operator ahead of a community drop-in event at the town's Rugby Club next month.

Senior staff will be on hand to answer questions about the £400 million development - which is being proposed, off the A7, just north of the town - ahead of the formal planning application being submitted later this year.

Mr Hogarth, who has been described as being instrumental in the development of the Hawick Local Place Plan, will act as a key point of contact for local residents, tenants, landowners and groups, "dedicating his time to ensuring open communication throughout the project".

Locals are being invited to find out more at Hawick Rugby Club on Wednesday, February 12th, from 11am to 7pm.

“As someone with my roots in Hawick and the Scottish Borders, I am delighted to take on this role and support the planning application process for a project that I believe will bring transformational benefits to the region," he said.

"My priority is to listen to local voices and ensure that we work together to develop plans that respect and enhance what the region already has to offer.

"I look forward to meeting local people at the public meetings and pre-planning exhibitions in the months ahead.”

LISTEN: Click on the link below to hear what neighbours of the site think of the project...

The new resort, which incorporates Huntlaw Farm at Hassendean, is expected to boast a range of leisure facilities, including an indoor swimming pool and spa, around 14 bars and restaurants, and create 1,200 permanent full-time jobs.

It's anticipated it would attract 250,000 visitors a year, and generate around £27 million spend in the local economy annually.

The holiday village would be Center Parcs first in Scotland and the biggest of the leisure operator's six sites in the UK and Ireland.

A meeting hosted by Lilliesleaf, Ashkirk and Midlem Community Council earlier this month heard bosses are hopeful their plans will be approved by local councillors before the end of the year, with a potential opening date in 2028.

Colin McKinlay, Chief Executive Officer of Center Parcs, said: “We are incredibly excited about the opportunity to bring a Center Parcs village to the Scottish Borders, creating a fantastic destination for families while delivering significant economic and social benefits to the local area.

"Ensuring excellent community engagement is fundamental to everything we do, and this public presentation is a vital part of ensuring we work in collaboration with local communities and stakeholders from the very beginning.

“I am also pleased to welcome Paul Hogarth to our team. Paul’s deep connection to the local community will enhance our local engagement efforts and aid us in building strong relationships across the region.”

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