Perthshire holiday resort bid raises jobs bonanza hopes

Hotel owners say 250 posts may be created by Auchterarder plan

Gleneagles’ bid for a major holiday resort in rural Perthshire could create 250 jobs and pump more than £5 million into the local economy, it has emerged.

Owners of the world-famous hotel have lodged proposals for an ambitious new development at Auchterarder.

The project, earmarked for more than 250 acres of land west of Gleneagles Village, features more than 200 lodges and teepees, as well as two restaurants, a “country pub” and spa.

It comes after London-based owners Ennismore bought the Easterton Farm site in 2016. The farm had been on the market with a £1.45 million price tag.

Developers say the resort will be modelled on the Soho Farmhouse, a celebrity haunt in the Cotswolds.

In paperwork lodged with the local authority, Gleneagles outlines the plan’s expected economic impact.

A spokesman for agents Savills said: “The proposed development has the potential to have a positive impact on the economy of Perth and Kinross, creating an additional estimated 188 temporary jobs for residents during the construction period and 64 additional permanent jobs for residents once operational.”

He said the resort would “add approximately £5.2 million gross value added per annum to the Scottish economy and the guests would spend an estimated £670,000 each year in the local area.”

Savills said the design would combine Gleneagles’ established luxury branding with “a rustic outdoor experience”.

“A key consideration in the design was the desire to create a secluded and peaceful environment which complements the surrounding landscape and allows guests to appreciate the Perthshire landscape and Gleneagles hospitality,” the spokesman added.

Barns would be built to host events like weddings, parties and corporate occasions.

Gleneagles’ managing director Bernard Murphy said: “We look to complement and expand the existing Gleneagles offering with an authentic, luxury rural camp experience that will make the most of the stunning natural assets on the site.”

Residents were asked their views on the project at a consultation event in March. They raised concerns about potential impact on areas of archaeological importance, as well as light pollution, noise and traffic.

Locals said the main access road was “inadequate” and would be unable to cope with a high volume of vehicles. The proposal is being considered by council officers and is likely to be brought before councillors in the coming months.

A key consideration in the design was the desire to create a secluded and peaceful environment. SAVILLS SPOKESMAN

A graphic of the proposed luxury camp hub, near Auchterarder.