Center Parcs unveils further details for proposed Scottish site
The updated masterplan incorporates technical refinements and feedback gathered from earlier consultations, ensuring the proposals reflect the views and aspirations of the local community.
Key highlights include new visuals and more detailed designs for the village centre, showcasing the iconic Subtropical Swimming Paradise, the luxurious Aqua Sana Forest Spa, and a selection of family-friendly retail and dining options, including the much-loved Pancake House.
Attendees also learned more about the layout of the accommodation, which includes woodland lodges and an apartment block, as well as a range of outdoor and adventure facilities such as tree trekking, adventure golf, and a zip wire.
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Center Parcs plans for first Scottish site take 'major step forward'
Center Parcs unveils masterplan for proposed Scottish Borders village
Center Parcs unveils zoning plan for proposed Scottish Borders village
Additional detail was also shared on the "carefully designed" lochs, wildflower meadows, nature walks, and wetlands of the development. A dedicated Nature and Heritage Centre—complete with an adjacent restaurant and coffee shop - "will be both educational and a welcome spot for guests to relax".
The masterplan also outlines extensive landscaping and screening measures "to ensure the village blends seamlessly into the surrounding natural environment".
Meanwhile, "carefully integrated paths and access roads" have been designed to "preserve the village's tranquillity while enhancing guests' connection to the surrounding natural landscape".
This latest consultation follows previous events in Lilliesleaf in February, where the preliminary zoning plan was revealed, and in Denholm last month, where the first iteration of the masterplan was shared.
The final public consultation event will take place in Hawick on Tuesday, May 20 with a Community Open Day being hosted on Wednesday, May 21, where further detail will be revealed including new CGI of the proposed development.
An updated version of the village masterplan (Image: Center Parcs)
Center Parcs plans to submit a formal planning application to Scottish Borders Council this summer.
Colin McKinlay, CEO of Center Parcs, said: "We're pleased to share the latest version of the masterplan with the community and show how their feedback is helping to shape the future of the Scottish Borders village. From the layout of our lodges to the design of key facilities like the Subtropical Swimming Paradise and Aqua Sana Forest Spa, every detail has been carefully considered to reflect the unique character of the location. We have made good progress so far in our design, technical and consultation work and we are committed to continuing positive collaboration as we move towards submitting our planning application."
Center Parcs currently operates six villages across the UK and Ireland and brings over 35 years of experience in delivering high-quality, family short breaks.
If planning permission is granted for the Scottish Borders site, the development is expected to generate between 750 and 800 jobs during the construction phase. Once operational, the village is expected to create approximately 1,200 permanent, non-seasonal roles—offering a wide range of career opportunities for local residents, including management positions. The total investment in the project is estimated at between £350 million and £400 million.
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