Plans for an extensive new holiday park at Gleneagles are one step closer after Perth and Kinross Council approved the proposals in principle.
Gleneagles operators outlined plans for a holiday resort in rural Perthshire that could create more than 200 jobs and deliver a £5 million boost to the Scottish economy.
Owners of the world famous resort want to open two restaurants, shops, a spa and pub, as well as dozens of lodges, teepees and studio apartments across more than 250 acres of land near Auchterarder, at Easterton Farm.
Located three kilometres west of the hotel and golf course complex, the site is currently used for grazing.
An economic study shows 188 temporary jobs will be created during construction, and more than 60 permanent posts when the resort is up and running.
Proposals outline knocking down most of the existing farm buildings, although one farm cottage would be maintained as part of the development.
Beneath the ground, the developers are planning to open up a watercourse which has been piped off.
Water safety features were raised as an issue by Depute Provost Willie Wilson but officers confirmed such details would be included in any finalised plans.
Gleneagles staff will be restricted by what they can build by gas pipes which run beneath the ground at the farm, which had been on the market with a £1.45 million price tag.
The plans, which will be phased over six years, include a network of “low impact” roads within the site, of which the capacity was queried by elected members.
Council officers confirmed this would be examined in detail when a formal application is submitted but suggested there could be a main parking area near the entrance and guests would be ferried about onsite.
Convener Roz McCall said knowing the way Gleneagles operate, she would expect golf buggies or similar vehicles to be used.
Issues regarding ancient woodland in the northern corner of the site were also raised but again, officers said it was too early to study the plan in such detail.
Strathallan councillor Tom Gray said: “This farmland is of particularly low agricultural value. I think this development is harmless.
“I’m certain that Gleneagles will see to it that the site doesn’t compromise the amenity of the area.”
The plans were passed with unanimous support.
