Peeblesshire News | News | Any reservations over wigwam plan?

Friday, 5th December, 2008

Published: Friday, 3rd October, 2008 12:30

Any reservations over wigwam plan?

By David Knox

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PLANS to create a wigwam reservation at Glentress have been given the go-ahead.

Farmer Ian Ritchie was granted permission this week to site 24 of the structures on land just behind The Hub café and bike hire.

And it is hoped the new low-cost accommodation will attract even more visitors to the already popular outdoor centre.

More than 250,000 mountain bikers and walkers arrive at Glentress each year.

But a shortage of budget accommodation nearby has restricted most to just day visits.

Mr Ritchie is delighted his plans have won approval. He told the Peeblesshire News: “The wigwams will be both affordable and comfortable, and I’m sure will prove popular with people coming to Glentress.

“I have spoken to many mountainbikers and they have all said that there will be great demand for the wigwams.

“I haven’t set any timescales as yet but I will be hoping to crack on with the development as soon as I can.”

As well as erecting 24 of the four-to-five berth wigwams, the farmer will also build a toilet and shower block as well as a reception room on the 4-hectare former-grazing field.

And a 24-space car park will also be created.

Local councillor Catriona Bhatia is a supporter of the project. She told us: “It is encouraging to see a project which will benefit tourism in the area as well being a good case of farm diversity.

“There is a lot of excellent accommodation in Tweeddale already but there is a need for more affordable beds.

“There are a lot of people who just come to Glentress for the day and head straight home again, which doesn’t always benefit the local economy – hopefully the wigwams will encourage more of them to stay and spend more time and money in the area.”

News of the planned new visitor centre at Glentress has also been unveiled this week.

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