Plans for Scotland's inaugural Center Parcs resort have taken a decisive step forward after planning officials formally recommended the £450 million project for approval.
Transformational Project for the Borders
The proposed holiday village, earmarked for a site near Hawick in the Scottish Borders, is modelled on the firm's existing UK sites. It promises to be a significant economic driver for the region.
Lead planning officer Barry Fotheringham labelled the scheme as "transformational," anticipating it will create year-round employment and draw hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. The development is set to include 700 holiday lodges, alongside the brand's signature Subtropical Swimming Paradise and an Aqua Sana Forest Spa.
Overcoming Objections for Economic Gain
Despite the strong recommendation, the project did not advance without local concern. A total of 40 objections were lodged, highlighting issues such as the loss of farmland, potential increases in pollution and traffic, and the visual impact of the large-scale development on the landscape.
However, officials assessing the application concluded that the overall impact on local residents would be "negligible." The substantial promised economic benefits were deemed to outweigh the identified concerns.
Final Decision Date Set
The proposal is now scheduled to be presented to the Scottish Borders Council's Planning and Building Standards Committee for a final ruling. The committee is set to meet on Monday 8 December 2025.
If granted final approval, construction on Scotland's first Center Parcs will begin, marking a new chapter for tourism in the Borders and offering a major new staycation destination for the UK market.
