Center Parcs announces first Scottish holiday village with £400m investment plan

Center Parcs has unveiled plans for its first holiday village in Scotland, marking a significant milestone with a proposed investment of £400 million. The company has outlined proposals to develop a site in the Scottish Borders, located about three miles north of Hawick and 55 miles south of Edinburgh. The project is expected to bring substantial benefits to the local economy, including job opportunities.

Situated east of the A7 trunk road between Hawick and Selkirk, the site is owned by the Buccleuch Group, which has entered into an option agreement with Center Parcs. While the plans are still in the early stages, the company aims to submit a planning application in 2025. The proposed village will resemble Center Parcs’ existing holiday villages in England and Ireland, featuring around 700 lodges, various recreational activities, shops, dining outlets, an Aqua Sana Forest Spa, and the iconic Subtropical Swimming Paradise.

Moreover, the development will involve an extensive afforestation programme to create a new woodland area, emphasizing biodiversity net gain. Center Parcs presented the project details in Hawick to a gathering of community leaders, business figures, and political representatives. Colin McKinlay, the CEO of Center Parcs, expressed enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the potential to elevate leisure and tourism in the Scottish Borders and generate economic growth.

During the construction phase, the project is estimated to create 750-800 jobs mainly for the region, with a further 1,200 permanent non-seasonal jobs expected once the village is operational. Local contractors will be engaged where feasible, and local suppliers will be prioritised post-completion. The investment for the new village is projected to range between £350 million to £400 million. Benny Higgins, Executive Chairman of the Buccleuch Group, hailed the potential positive impact of the project on tourism and leisure in the Scottish Borders.

Center Parcs emphasised its commitment to sustainability, citing its track record of transforming commercial woodlands into biodiverse landscapes at its existing villages. The company plans to engage in thorough planning processes, community consultations, and site surveys to ensure a well-planned and sustainable development. The proposed village aims to offer Scottish families a convenient holiday destination while contributing to the local economy and enhancing biodiversity.

In conclusion, Center Parcs’ ambitious venture to establish its inaugural holiday village in Scotland represents a significant investment in the region’s tourism sector. The project’s focus on sustainability, job creation, and community engagement underscores the company’s commitment to responsible development and economic growth. If realised, the new village is poised to not only boost the local economy but also provide families with a unique and eco-friendly holiday experience in the picturesque Scottish Borders.