Center Parcs has announced plans to open its first holiday village in Scotland with a significant investment of £400m. The proposed site is located in the Scottish Borders, three miles north of Hawick and 55 miles south of Edinburgh. The site, owned by Buccleuch Group, will undergo development to accommodate approximately 700 lodges and a range of indoor and outdoor activities.
The new holiday village will mirror the existing Center Parcs villages in England and Ireland, featuring shops, restaurants, an Aqua Sana Forest Spa, and the iconic Subtropical Swimming Paradise. Center Parcs aims to enhance biodiversity by creating a new woodland and planting thousands of trees on the predominantly open grassland site. The company presented its proposals to community leaders and local representatives in Hawick.
Center Parcs CEO, Colin McKinlay, expressed excitement about the project, highlighting the economic benefits it would bring to the Scottish Borders. The development phase of the project is expected to create 750-800 jobs, with around 1,200 permanent non-seasonal positions once operational. Local suppliers and contractors will be prioritised during construction to boost the local economy.
The investment in the Scottish holiday village is part of Center Parcs’ commitment to sustainability, focusing on creating a thriving natural environment while providing leisure and tourism opportunities. The company plans to engage in a comprehensive planning process, incorporating community feedback and conducting site surveys to ensure a well-rounded development approach.
In conclusion, the announcement of Center Parcs’ first Scottish holiday village signifies a major milestone in the company’s expansion efforts. The proposed development not only promises economic growth for the region but also underscores the importance of environmental conservation and community engagement in leisure and tourism projects. With its proven track record in delivering successful holiday destinations, Center Parcs aims to create a unique and sustainable experience for visitors in the heart of the Scottish Borders.