PLANS for new accommodation and other facilities on a site at Bridge of Orchy have been approved by council officers.
The site of the former Auch Lodge was the subject of an application by management of the estate, who said that they were “excited and focused on growing the agri-tourism business”.
The proposal includes a central guest hub, a four-bedroom unit and a two-bedroom unit, with the estate having considered its business model over recent years.
It is also estimated that 15 jobs will be created as a result of the plans.
Argyll and Bute Council has now awarded planning permission, with no feedback received from the public during the planning process.
A council official said in a handling report: “Auch Estate has been the subject of an overarching masterplan for its redevelopment to form an agri-tourism business.
“At the heart of the redevelopment of the estate is the proposed hotel/guest accommodation which forms part of a wider suite of development including a replacement farm complex, staff/holiday cottages together with a number of associated infrastructure projects.
“With the exception of the proposed hotel/guest accommodation, all consented development has been completed within the estate.
“The design statement (DS) submitted with the application details that the estate wish to change the design of the consented hotel/guest accommodation which is in direct response to significant changes in construction costs and the tourism accommodation market expectations and conditions.
“The DS details that the estate has given its business model significant consideration over the past 18 months and a decision has been taken to change the operating business model to prioritise a serviced self-catering/exclusive use lodge that is still capable of being let room by room like a hotel, supported by the recent change of use for the existing staff cottages to give flexibility for the estate to accommodate more self-catering guests.”
The officer added: “The DS details that the proposed development will provide 12 full-time and three part-time posts together with agency/seasonal staff as required.
