Get ready, Scotland! Center Parcs is potentially heading your way, bringing a slice of holiday paradise to the Scottish Borders. Could this be the ultimate staycation destination?
After what feels like ages, the mega-popular holiday village chain might finally be expanding in the UK. We're talking a potential £450 million investment that could transform the region.
Whispers are swirling that officials are recommending approval for the ambitious plan. Imagine: a sprawling 700-lodge site nestled near Hawick, ready to welcome families and fun-seekers.
So, what exactly will this Center Parcs offer? Think shimmering lochs, winding nature trails, and lush woodlands ripe for exploring.
But the fun doesn't stop there! Brace yourselves for an indoor swimming complex, a luxurious health spa, and enough outdoor activities to tire out even the most energetic youngsters. Plus, shops and restaurants galore!
Despite a few local grumbles, planning honchos seem pretty chuffed with the proposal. They're convinced it'll bring massive economic and social perks, not just to the immediate area but to Scotland as a whole.
Barry Fotheringham, a lead planning officer, reckons the location is spot-on and the benefits are undeniable. He assures us any potential environmental impact will be kept in check. Phew!
This isn't just another holiday park; it's a game-changer. We're talking year-round jobs, a flood of new tourists (around 350,000 annually!), and a potential economic boom for the Borders.
Center Parcs' top dog, Colin McKinlay, is already buzzing with excitement. If all goes according to plan, they're hoping to throw open the doors in early 2029. Mark your calendars, folks!
The Scottish Borders Council's planning committee is set to make the big decision on December 8th. Fingers crossed, eh?
It's been a while since Center Parcs expanded on UK shores. The last one to open was Woburn Forest way back in 2017, although Longford Forest in Ireland popped up in 2019.
Earlier this year, Center Parcs gave us a sneak peek at what the Scottish village might look like. And let us tell you, it's dreamy!
Picture this: a subtropical swimming paradise (complete with a lazy river, naturally!), an Aqua Sana Forest Spa for ultimate relaxation, and charming waterside lodges dotted amongst the trees.
But wait, there's more! Pancake houses, a sports plaza for the sporty types, and even a Nature and Heritage Centre for a bit of culture. Sounds like the perfect blend of fun and relaxation.
McKinlay envisions a place where visitors can cycle, spa, and wander through forests. Imagine stumbling upon an iconic view of the swimming pool complex, surrounded by up to 700 cozy lodges.
He's calling it a "once-in-a-generation investment" for the Scottish Borders. Talk about high praise!
Center Parcs isn't just resting on its laurels, either. They recently unveiled their first-ever new adventure attraction. These guys are serious about fun!
So, if you're dreaming of a Center Parcs getaway without breaking the bank, check out how to bag an affordable Center Parcs stay with your family. Happy planning!
In other news, things are happening in the travel world, from major European cities banning holiday rentals to airport "gate-camping" trends.
Even popular holiday parks are ditching plans for new Wetherspoons pubs. What is the world coming to?
And, if you're travelling by train, you might want to know that the UK’s busiest train station is getting a multi-million pound upgrade.
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