Taymouth Castle’s plans for worker accommodation at Moness Resort are on track, as reported by the Daily Record. The exclusive £300m Taymouth Castle estate in Aberfeldy is expanding, with investors connected to the luxury development acquiring Moness Resort in 2023. This acquisition is anticipated to necessitate housing for approximately 200 workers. To address the local housing challenges in the region, a Proposal of Application Notice (PAN) has been submitted for cottages at Moness Resort by Aberfeldy Community Council.
Last year, the neighbouring Kenmore and District Community Council advocated for a more sustainable housing balance between residential and holiday accommodation, recognising the struggle of tourism-related businesses to attract and retain staff due to a shortage of lodging. With the impending expansion of the Crannog centre and the opening of Taymouth Castle estate, the housing situation was predicted to exacerbate.
Victor Clements, chairperson of Aberfeldy Community Council, confirmed the receipt of the PAN for cottages at Moness Resort meant for Taymouth staff. The proposal encompasses 77 out of 106 cottages, allowing for flexible residential use, including potential holiday accommodation. The remaining cottages and the hotel at Moness Resort will continue to operate as visitor accommodation.
A consultation drop-in event is scheduled at Moness on March 18, with subsequent events in April, before the planning submission. According to a spokesperson for Moness Resort, the proposal aims to address local housing challenges while maintaining exceptional guest experiences.
In a related development, Taymouth Castle’s website mentioned a proposal for a change of use for some of Moness Resort’s holiday cottages, following its acquisition in 2023. This initiative signifies a significant transformation within the town of Aberfeldy, and community engagement is encouraged during the consultation process.
In summary, Taymouth Castle’s endeavour to provide adequate worker accommodation reflects a proactive approach to address the growing housing needs in the Aberfeldy area. The collaboration between local councils, investors, and community members demonstrates a commitment to sustainable development and supporting the region’s tourism industry. Through inclusive consultations and strategic planning, the accommodation plans at Moness Resort signify progress towards a balanced and vibrant local economy.