First Scottish Center Parcs receives recommendation for approval

Planning authorities in the Scottish Borders have suggested that proposals for the countrys inaugural Center Parcs holiday resort should move forward. The project envisions 700 lodges along with newly-formed lochs, woodland areas, and nature trails. Additional amenities will include an indoor swimming complex, wellness spa, outdoor activity zones, shops, and dining venues.

The 450 million development, located near Hawick, has received objections from roughly 40 residents close to the farmland designated for the site. Despite this, officials have indicated satisfaction with the comprehensive plans and believe the Scottish Borders Council (SBC) planning committee can approve the project, allowing construction to begin next year.

Environment and Facilities

The plan includes creating two new lochs, a forested area, and scenic walking paths. Barry Fotheringham, lead planning officer, stated, The project necessitates a large rural site outside any existing settlements and presents clear economic and social benefits for both the Borders and Scotland as a whole.

While economic and tourism organizations broadly support the project, some locals have raised concerns about its scale. Issues highlighted by the 40 objections include visual and landscape impact, noise, light pollution, farmland loss, increased traffic, and restricted access. Planning officers have concluded that Center Parcs proposals address these concerns and present a strong case for development in the countryside.

Fotheringham added, Though the development is significant, mitigation measures detailed in the application mean the project will not adversely affect the landscape or environment. Residential amenities nearby will experience minimal impact, and the surrounding road network can accommodate the additional traffic. With an investment of 450 million, this development could transform the Borders economy, creating year-round jobs and attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, potentially spurring wider regional growth.

Local Opposition

Merlin Lewis, whose family farm borders the 988-acre Center Parcs site, has opposed the plans since their announcement in November 2024. He warned, This development will severely impact our farm and others nearby. Life here will never be the same.

Economic Impact

Center Parcs currently operates six parks across the UK and Ireland. Hassendean, near Hawick, was selected after evaluating several potential sites. The construction phase is expected to support around 800 jobs, with 1,200 permanent positions created once the park opens. SBC economic officers estimate the resort will draw over 350,000 visitors annually, contributing an additional 3040 million to the local economy each year.

During a consultation, Center Parcs CEO Colin McKinlay indicated that if approval is granted by year-end, construction could begin in early 2027, with the first visitors arriving in spring 2029.

The Scottish Borders Council planning committee will review the application on 8 December to determine its outcome.

Author’s Analysis: Center Parcs Proposal in the Scottish Borders

The proposed Center Parcs resort near Hawick represents a significant investment in the Scottish Borders, with a projected cost of £450 million and the creation of 700 lodges alongside extensive recreational and natural amenities. Planning authorities have indicated that the application sufficiently addresses concerns raised by local residents, particularly regarding landscape impact, traffic, and environmental considerations.

Economic projections suggest that the development could substantially benefit the region. Construction is expected to create around 800 jobs, while 1,200 permanent positions would follow once the park opens. Annual visitor numbers are estimated at 350,000, potentially generating £30–40 million in local economic activity. These figures underscore the project’s potential to support year-round employment and stimulate regional growth.

Despite these benefits, opposition from approximately 40 residents reflects ongoing concerns about farmland loss, noise, light pollution, and changes to the rural character of the area. Planning officers, however, maintain that mitigation measures will minimize adverse effects on nearby homes and the environment.

The Scottish Borders Council planning committee is scheduled to review the application on 8 December, which will determine whether construction can commence in early 2027, with an anticipated opening in spring 2029. The decision will be a key moment for balancing economic opportunity against local and environmental impacts.

Sources:

• First Scottish Center Parcs recommended for approval