Thirlestane Castle Caravan Park expansion bid rubber-stamped

Thirlestane Castle Caravan Park in Lauder was established in the latter part of last century within the walled grounds of Thirlestane Castle in order to provide a diversified source of income for the estate.

The caravan park currently has both owner-occupied static units and an area for tourers and campers.

It has proved to be a popular and successful tourism location, particularly the static caravan area of the park, which is in extremely high demand.

The new development site, which has been approved by Scottish Borders Council, is within the existing caravan park and will incorporate 49 units, being a mixture of static caravans and lodges.

The caravan park contains 73 static caravans or lodges, 55 pitches for seasonal tourers, 15 for off-road tourers as well as a small field for camping with 14 pitches.

The park currently has an operating licence allowing static caravan occupation from the start of March to December 23.

The work will also see the extension of an existing play area and picnic site.

A report with the application states: “The proposed increase in number of static caravans and lodges is required to meet a high customer demand for these type of units rather than the touring and camping stances which they are replacing.

“Since the caravan park expanded in 2015 it has seen a dramatic increase in demand for seasonal holiday homeowners. The park has been selling on average 15 static caravans or lodges each year and have now reached capacity for these type of units, and as a consequence have been turning away potential customers.

“The proposed development is an extension of the current static site within the boundaries of Thirlestane Castle Caravan Park, utilising suitable types of holiday accommodation which are already prevalent in the park.

“The development will assist the existing site to contribute positively to the local economy and will not detract from the character of the surrounding area or any residential amenity.”