A formal planning application has been submitted to the Scottish Borders Council for a proposed luxury holiday park near Jedburgh.
The £5 million development, led by CampbellMac Developments Ltd., would introduce 40 lodges along with an office, reception, and manager’s accommodation lodge on land currently used for agricultural grazing. If approved, the project could create up to 18 jobs in the local economy.
The application follows a prior pre-planning inquiry in 2020, which received initial support in principle. However, uncertainties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic delayed further investment at the time.
According to a report by the Border Telegraph, the land, which was acquired in November 2023, has historically been used for sheep, cattle, and horses, operating under a grazing license.
Since purchasing the property, the new owners have conducted environmental surveys and held a 12-week public consultation to gather feedback.
If the planning application is successful, a more detailed design proposal will be submitted, outlining the final layout of the lodges. The company envisions the project enhancing tourism in the Scottish Borders while offering a new revenue stream to the local economy.
A spokesperson for CampbellMac Developments Ltd. highlighted the project’s economic potential, stating, “The £5m investment would create up to 18 new jobs.”
The firm is positioning the development as a long-term investment in the region’s outdoor hospitality sector, which continues to evolve in response to growing demand for rural and nature-based accommodations.
For business owners in the outdoor hospitality industry, the proposed development reflects a broader trend of repurposing agricultural land to meet the rising demand for high-end rural stays.
The success of similar projects has demonstrated that strategic site selection and early community engagement can play a crucial role in securing planning approval.
Developers and park operators considering expansion may take note of the project’s phased approach, balancing market readiness with regulatory requirements.
If approved, the holiday park would contribute to the diversification of the region’s tourism offerings while aligning with the industry’s ongoing shift toward experiential, nature-based stays.
