Plant machinery specialist behind plans for £33.8m Perthshire development

PLANT machinery specialist Morris Leslie is behind plans for a new £33.8 million leisure-led development at West Kinfauns in Perthshire.

The firm is proposing the development, which includes a four-star hotel, lodge-style cabins, and a museum celebrating the story of transport and vehicles over the last century.

A Proposal of Application Notice (PAN) has been submitted to Perth and Kinross Councill, noting the intent of Morris Leslie to submit a planning application following a minimum 12-week consultation period.

The project has been tipped to boost local job opportunities, both once complete and during its construction phase.

Morris Leslie, chairman of Morris Leslie Ltd, said, “This exciting £33.8 million development provides the perfect opportunity to maximise the potential of the location and draw tourism to the area on a local and national basis. Well-connected to the surrounding road network, including the A90, this premium destination will provide a gateway to Perth, to the surrounding area and beyond.

“The proposed scheme is of a scale that can support additional development and is ideally placed in terms of transport connection. It is also in a beautiful location with wonderful views.”

Council leader Councillor Murray Lyle commented, “This leisure-led development has the potential to make an exciting contribution to the local economy. These plans, although at an early stage, are a significant vote of confidence in Perth and Kinross and our ambitious plans for the area, which include the redevelopment of Perth City Hall to house the Stone of Destiny and the creation of the Cross Tay Link Road.”

Caroline Warburton, VisitScotland regional leadership director, added, “This is an incredibly appealing prospect for Perthshire and for Scotland as a whole, drawing tourists to the marvellous attractions in the area and creating much-needed jobs. The delivery of another four-star hotel is particularly exciting.

“A leisure-led development such as this has the potential to support and bolster the leisure-stay market in Perth, acting as a hub for longer stay tourism as well as a base for day trips. We look forward to following these proposals.”

A digital community consultation event will be held on Tuesday 16thMarch between 3pm and 7pm at www.west-kinfauns.co.uk. This will give the public the chance to ask questions and give their views on the plans.