Tourism chief backs plans for Luthermuir hotel and services

A national tourism body has backed plans to build a hotel and roadside services on the A90.

A proposal for planning permission has been launched for a cafe, farm shop, restaurant and petrol station at the dual carriageway’s Luthermuir junction.

Mains of Luther Farm has been worked by the Robertson family for three generations and Luther Farm Services hope to emulate locations like Gloucester on the M5.

Visit Scotland regional director Jo Robinson wrote a public letter supporting the development, saying it would make the area more appealing to tourists if consent was given.

However, the Scottish Environment Protection Agency has raised its concerns regarding flood risk.

Ms Robinson said: “This development is exactly the kind of high-quality asset that Visit Scotland has outlined in the National Tourism Development Framework as being critical to sustainable growth in the visitor economy.

“The Kincardine and Mearns area of Aberdeenshire has many great natural resources, and visitor attractions such as this proposed development complement the landscape perfectly, enhancing the visitor experience.

“Developing the Mains of Luther site as a family-friendly rural experience ... will help position Kincardine and Mearns as a must-visit destination.”

A proposal of application notice was submitted to Aberdeenshire Council in February.

The move follows the recent submission of an application to renew approval for a 60-bed motel and garden centre at the Stracathro service area beside the northbound A90.