PLANT hire specialist Morris Leslie has had its plans for a £33.8 million leisure-led development at West Kinfauns, Perthshire, approved by Perth and Kinross Council.
The business, which has its HQ on the West Kinfauns site, has secured planning permission in principle for the development, establishing the principle of development on the site.
The project has been tipped to deliver a ‘major boost’ to the Perthshire economy. Overall, the site will deliver ‘upwards’ of 130 full-time jobs, with others created through the supply chain and its construction. All commercial profits generated will be invested to realise the proposed transport museum on the site.
Proposals for West Kinfauns include plans for a four-star hotel of up to 150 rooms, up to 52-holiday chalets, a transport museum and associated workshop, and retail and support services. The museum will tell the story of transport and vehicles over the last century, with a focus on the impact of those from Scotland and more specifically the local area.
Accommodation at the hotel and chalets is expected to attract 80,000 visitors annually.
Morris Leslie, chairman of Morris Leslie Limited, said, “We are thrilled that councillors have approved this application. Morris Leslie is committed to delivering a development that brings significant investment to Perthshire, and the West Kinfauns development provides an ideal opportunity to maximise a perfect location, attracting tourists to the area.
“The proposed scheme is of a scale that can support additional development and is ideally placed in terms of transport connections. It is also in a beautiful location with outstanding views.
“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.”
