Zoning plan gives glimpse inside Center Parcs proposals for 700-lodge holiday village in the Scottish Borders
Last updated 26th Feb 2025
A preliminary zoning plan outlining Center Parcs' vision for its proposed new holiday village in the Scottish Borders has been unveiled.
The map - which identifies areas for access, car parking and up to 700 holiday lodges - was shown for the first time at a public exhibition at the Currie Memorial Hall in Lilliesleaf this afternoon (Wednesday).
Key features include a long driveway off the A7, just north of Hawick, to reduce the risk of tailbacks on the trunk road. Although it remains to be seen whether a roundabout will be required.
It comes as the chairman of South of Scotland Enterprise, Professor Russel Griggs, reveals public transport in the region must improve to cope with the influx of visitors to the year-round attraction.
Colin McKinlay, Chief Executive of Center Parcs, said: "The unveiling of this zoning plan marks an important first step in bringing our vision for a Center Parcs village in the Scottish Borders to life.
“This early-stage plan provides a foundation for thoughtful development, ensuring that environmental, heritage, and community factors remain central to our approach."
Areas containing heritage assets have also been identified, with no development envisaged, in addition to new biodiversity initiatives, including wetlands, wildflower meadows, and lochs.
Proposed enhanced screening also aims to minimise the impact on neighbouring properties while maintaining the area's natural beauty.
But the developers stress the zoning plan is "subject to change", as technical work progresses and consultee feedback is received in the coming months.
A spokesperson said: "Those insights will play a crucial role in shaping the eventual masterplan which will form part of the planning application when it is submitted later this year."
Today's event is the first of four statutory public consultations, with further drop-in events planned at Denholm Village Hall on Wednesday, March 26th; Selkirk Rugby Club on Thursday, April 24th; and Hawick Rugby Club on Tuesday, May 20th - all between 2pm and 7pm.
In addition, Center Parcs will host a Community Open Day at Hawick RFC on Wednesday, May 21st, from 11am to 7pm.
WATCH: Boss of Center Parcs reveals passion behind plans for first holiday village in Scotland...
Mr McKinlay said: "We are committed to listening to the local community as we refine our plans over the coming months, with the aim of submitting a formal planning application in the summer.
“We truly appreciate the feedback and engagement from those who attended today’s event and look forward to continuing these important conversations at our upcoming consultation events."
If approved, the holiday village - which incorporates Huntlaw Farm at Hassendean - would become Center Parcs first in Scotland and the biggest of its sites in the UK and Ireland.
As well as creating 1,200 permanent full-time jobs, up to 800 more jobs would be supported during the construction phase; with a potential opening date in 2028.
Boasting a range of leisure facilities, including an indoor swimming pool and spa, as well as around 14 bars and restaurants, it's anticipated the £400 million development would attract 250,000 visitors a year, and generate around £27 million a year for the local economy.
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