IT’S full steam ahead for three luxury glamping pods located beside a former railway line in West Linton.

A planning bid was submitted to Scottish Borders Council (SBC) to locate the pods on land west of the old station at Cowdenburn.

The proposed site is also adjacent to the Clyde Valley Tourist Route and Borders Historic Route.

Now SBC planning officer Ranald Dods has approved the plans, saying: “The applicant’s business plan indicates that one of the primary markets for these pods would be for those wishing to have a holiday with their horse.

“The site is some 400m distant from the existing stables building and ménage, which could be utilised by holidaymakers. Despite that distance, the intention is to create a fenced area in the field adjacent to the site where holidaymakers’ horses could be accommodated in close proximity, thereby reducing the risk of kicking and injuries through the introduction of new horses to an existing herd elsewhere within the applicant’s land.”

A submission in support of the application said: “These routes have current demand and will increase in line with market trends as these routes become more well known. In line with this type of attraction, short stay accommodation local to these routes will be in demand, Old Station Pods will provide a high quality and secure environment for guests.

“In short the Clyde Valley Tourist Route is a scenic tourist route which passes through lush countryside and offers amazing wildlife along with historic castles and outdoor pursuits. The Borders Historic Route actually starts in England and passes through lovely countryside as well as many charming villages.”

The report adds: “The location and situation of the Old Station Pods are favourable for the establishment of a ‘Luxury Glamping’ enterprise.”