The official plan for a £1 million development of an iconic roadside restaurant has been lodged.
If approved by Perth and Kinross Council, The Horn Milk Bar will move to a “fit for purpose” new location on the Errol Station Road, with its aim being to “accommodate the needs of its long established” clientele.
Kenny Farquharson, who helps run the current eatery, said the move is necessary to “continue the success of the family business for the next half century.”
The Horn was established in 1960 as a ‘tartan shed,’ with the existing building constructed in 1973.
Mr Farquharson jnr feels The Horn has served its purpose “extremely well” and reached iconic status nationally over the years, but insists now is the time to move 100 metres along from its existing site.
“You can’t rest on your laurels,” he said.
“So in order to continue the success of the family business for the next half century it’s necessary to progress. And unfortunately due to lack of space we are unable to provide the facilities necessary for today’s competitive market on the existing site.
“Starting from the origins of a tartan shed in 1960, we are fiercely proud of our agricultural heritage, and would look to emulate this in the new building. The total area of the new development site is 16 acres, so the first phase is the relocation of The Horn which we anticipate being the catalyst for other areas of the site.”
He continued: “It should also be noted that our intention is to retain the existing Horn building and parking.”
A design and access statement submitted to Perth and Kinross Council by JFS architects on behalf of The Horn states that the new proposed site will create more suitable accommodation, capable of “meeting the increasing demands” placed on the existing Horn Milk Bar.
The document highlights how the existing Horn building, complete with “iconic” cow model atop, is clearly visible in both directions along the adjacent A90 Perth to Dundee dual carriageway, making it a “renowned destination.”
“It is hoped these strong visual connections will be replicated within the proposed development, with the new site being visible from the A90 and the nearby Inchmichael flyover,” the statement says.
“The restaurant business has been established in its current location since the early 1960s, and although the building is somewhat iconic, it is acknowledged there is a pressing need for it to be updated.
“The proposed relocation to a more modern facility nearby will ensure a business fit for purpose to accommodate the needs of its long established clientele, while attracting new custom and visitors to the area.
“Improving the visitor experience will increase business, thereby generating a valuable contribution to the local economy, particularly through the provision of further employment positions.
“The clients required that the proposal be designed to allow for potential future expansion.”