PLANS to create a holiday park with 137 lodges on the banks of the River Esk in Dumfriesshire will be considered by councillors next week.
The ambitious proposal, brought forward by Buccleuch Estates, would transform a 17.7-hectare site around the historic Irvine House, near Canonbie, into one of the most significant tourism developments in the region in recent years.
The project would also see the conversion and extension of Irvine House – which dates back to 1792.
The tourist attraction — if rubber-stamped by Dumfries and Galloway Council — would create 37 jobs and bring significant wider economic benefits to the area through visitor spending.
A planning application for the major development will go before next Wednesday’s planning committee.
Planning case officer Graham Smith has recommended that the development is approved, subject to conditions.
In his planning report, he wrote: “The proposal involves the creation of a holiday park, with the land to the northwest of Irvine House introducing 57 lodges with their own dedicated vehicular access and parking.
“And on the southern site, 80 lodges, again with their own access and parking.
“The existing site entrance, by the lodge building, would be utilised as a main entrance for visitors and guests arriving at the site. This entrance would be adjusted to ensure that there is sufficient visibility and access.”
Four different type of lodges are proposed, and they would incorporate a kitchen, dining and lounge area, along with an external decking area.
Irvine House is located midway between Langholm and Canonbie on the west bank of the River Esk.
It was examined as a possible site for a new country house for the Duke of Buccleuch in 1783 but the designs were never built.
Instead, a “more modest” building was constructed in about 1792 for captain George Maxwell.
The proposals would see the repair and adaptation of the house to become a welcome centre and holiday accommodation.
The planning report explains: “Irvine House and its outbuildings (known as Irvine House Lodge) which is currently vacant, would be adapted and used in connection with the holiday park.
“A new reception area would be formed on the ground floor with offices, guest lounges, a small shop and kitchen on the ground floor.
“The upper floors of Irvine House would be converted to guest accommodation, nine rooms, each with ensuite bathrooms. The Irvine House Lodge would be used for staff accommodation, storage and housekeeping.
“A single storey extension is proposed to the side of Irvine House to be used as an additional guest area.”
The site sits within the Langholm Hills Regional Scenic Area and borders the River Esk, parts of which are designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
However, NatureScot raised no objections after carrying out assessments, confirming the proposal will not affect the integrity of any protected sites.
As part of the approved conditions, all lodges must be used as holiday accommodation only and cannot serve as anyone’s main home. Electric vehicle charging points are also required, along with 1600 new trees, 715 metres of roadside hedging and 10 hectares of new habitat managed for biodiversity.
