A new tourism venture could be coming to the Ayrshire countryside, with a patch of land at Loans identified as a possible site for a glamping business.
The proposal seeks planning permission for four “high end” shepherd huts, to be sited on agricultural land at Collenan. The agent in the proposal is Glasgow-based Glampitect, and the applicant is James Gilmour.
Details of the proposed development
A supporting statement reads: “Proposed is the siting of four shepherd huts for overnight guest use, each with a private outdoor patio area and associated permeable footpaths, improvements to an existing access and internal vehicular track, new parking/turning area with adjacent recycling/refuse storage and a storage shed with secure bicycle storage. Also intended is minor landscaping of the site, including the planting of native species trees, shrubbery and meadow grass with wildflowers throughout.”
It is understood that this proposal is a new submission following the withdrawal of a previous planning application. This latest one has a “new site location.”
Construction and operation plans
The supporting statement continues: “The chosen high-end shepherd huts will be constructed off-site by the specialist manufacturer, Ellipse Leisure Buildings, and delivered as full units ready to connect to services.”
“The small-scale, sustainable development will diversify 13 Collenan Holding and support the longevity of the agricultural operations by providing subtle and discreet countryside holiday accommodation for tourists visiting the area on short breaks and weekend stays. The site is proposed to be in operation year-round, making it an excellent option for visitors to retreat and access everything the area has to offer in all seasons.”
“Situated approximately three miles northeast of Troon town centre, the site offers a unique rural accommodation experience that complements the area’s existing tourism offerings. By integrating shepherd huts for short-term holiday use into the existing agricultural operations at 13 Collenan Holding, the development supports farm diversification and resilience.”
“The glamping site represents a genuine farm diversification proposal which will provide an additional income stream to support the long-term viability and resilience of the wider agricultural enterprise.”
Decision expected in December
The proposals are listed as ‘pending consideration’ on South Ayrshire Council’s online planning portal, and a decision is expected at the end of December.
