The chief executive of Center Parcs, Colin McKinlay, is scheduled to address questions from the local community regarding the forthcoming £450 million holiday village in the Scottish Borders. This engagement follows the holiday resort company's successful acquisition of planning permission for the new development, named Center Parcs Scottish Borders, which will be situated in southern Scotland between the towns of Hawick and Selkirk.
Community Drop-In Event Details
Staff from the Center Parcs project team will travel to the Scottish Borders next month to conduct their first community drop-in event of 2026. The session is set for Wednesday, March 18, at Hawick Town Hall, with representatives available from 2pm to 7pm to meet residents in person and provide answers to their inquiries. This initiative coincides with the village project moving closer to the commencement of on-site construction activities.
Project Timeline and Features
Center Parcs aims to initiate construction work in spring 2026, with an anticipated opening date in summer 2029. The village will encompass up to 700 lodges and apartments, featuring the iconic Subtropical Swimming Paradise, a Village Centre housing shops and restaurants, and the Aqua Sana Forest Spa – a serene retreat integrated into a natural environment. Additionally, the development will include two newly created lochs designed for water sports and recreation, alongside a combined Nature and Heritage Centre with wildflower meadows, nature trails, and wetlands to enhance biodiversity.
CEO's Commitment to Community Dialogue
Colin McKinlay, CEO of Center Parcs, emphasised the importance of community engagement, stating: 'Speaking to, and listening to, the communities around our villages is hugely important to us. We greatly value these relationships and are committed to maintaining open dialogue and regular engagement with the Scottish Borders communities now that we have received the green light for this project.' He added that while the event will offer general information and address questions, detailed discussions about specific job or supplier opportunities will not be available at this stage, with further details to be released in due course.
Innovative Sustainability Initiatives
In a first for the company, Center Parcs Scottish Borders will involve planting a new forest, with species selected to foster a thriving woodland ecosystem. The project also integrates a wide range of outdoor activities into the landscape, aligning with the brand's signature style. McKinlay highlighted the uniqueness of the village, noting: 'This village will be truly unique. The scale of the site, the setting and the ability to plant and shape a brand-new forest give us the chance to take a bold step forward in both design and sustainability.'
Market Expansion and Demand
The development is expected to attract families from across Scotland and the north of England, tapping into a new market for Center Parcs. McKinlay expressed confidence in meeting strong demand with a modern offering tailored to contemporary family preferences for premium short breaks. The drop-in session will provide attendees with an overview of the project's timeline over the coming years, information on supplier standards, and generic details about typical roles available at Center Parcs villages.
