The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
£1m plan to build a new home for famous diner
THE HORN: Owners claim existing diner near Errol is no longer fit for purpose
One of Scotland’s most famous roadside diners looks set to move to a new “fit for purpose” site.
A £1 million plan has been lodged to develop a new site for the Horn Milk Bar, 100 metres from the existing building, with the ultimate aim to “satisfy the expectations and needs” of existing and future clientele.
The famous roadside diner in the Carse of Gowrie is well-known across the nation and the proposed move will see the Horn Milk Bar’s iconic cow positioned above the front door of the new development on Errol Station Road.
Kenny Farquharson, who helps run the Horn Milk Bar, said the time is right for the popular business to relocate.
“We have realised for some time that the current facilities are no longer fit for purpose,” he said.
“There is no option to stand still in business, so given our reputation, allied to a prime site of land adjacent to the A90, this provides a very exciting opportunity for the area – a ‘no brainer’ as some would say.”
Mr Farquharson revealed the intention is to relocate the current business on to the new 16-acre site, which is only 100 metres from the existing Horn diner, while continuing to “scope” the possibilities for the remainder of the land.
He stated “special care” and “considered” design has been taken with regard to the plan for the new building.
“Internally, the building will orientate customers away from the busy carriageway – thereby promoting a welcome respite,” Mr Farquharson added.
“It will pay homage to our agricultural heritage as well as essentially providing improved and additional facilities.
“Additionally, the increased area for car and coach, trailer and HGV parking has been carefully designed to provide easy access and exit, with the aim of improving the experience at the Horn for all drivers as well as the passengers.
“The ultimate aim being to satisfy the expectations and needs of existing and future clientele to the Horn.”
He continued: “Fans of the existing Horn need not fear – it is being retained as we are looking at alternative complementary use for the building, and likewise, the size of the legendary ‘behemoth’ bacon rolls will remain the same.”
The restaurant was originally established in 1960 as a “tartan shed”, with the existing building being built in 1973.
A report drawn up by Nick Brian, Perth and Kinross Council’s interim head of planning, recommends approval of the £1m plan, stating the proposal “does not conflict” with the local development plan.
“It is clear that the design of the proposal seeks to maintain the visual connections and characteristics of the existing Horn Milk Bar to the northeast,” his report says.
“The main entrance will face north-west towards the A90 with the iconic cow positioned above the doorway replicating the design of the existing Horn Milk Bar, which is clearly visible from the A90.”
Mr Brian suggests the proposal will “directly support” a “longer term” future and more appropriate location for the resiting of the established Horn café business.
“The applicant has advised that the Horn presently employs 12 catering staff in the restaurant and shop,” his report adds. Following construction of the new facility to accommodate 160 ‘covers,’ it’s anticipated a further 12 new positions will be required.”
The plan will be discussed at a meeting of the council’s planning and development management committee today.