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Questions arise over possible impact of planned expansion at caravan and glamping park in Inverness


By Alasdair Fraser

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Ardtower Caravan Park’s owners Iain Mackintosh and Elaine Pope have applied for permission to expand with 10 new glamping pods.
Ardtower Caravan Park’s owners Iain Mackintosh and Elaine Pope have applied for permission to expand with 10 new glamping pods.

Owners of an Inverness caravan and glamping park have been asked to provide assurances over plans to create a new clubhouse and swimming complex on the grounds.

The move by Highland Council planning officials came as some neighbouring residents raised questions over the possible impact.

Ardtower Caravan Park’s owners Iain Mackintosh and Elaine Pope have applied for permission to expand with 10 new glamping pods.

A significant investment would see the family-run business create the large clubhouse at the site just off Culloden Road featuring a swimming pool, restaurant, gym, games room, garage, deck area and a manager’s flat to enable a 24-hour staff presence.

With investment in new accommodation pods, there would also be a new access road, parking, pathways, a children’s play trail and landscaping works including a water feature pond.

Highland Council’s environmental health team has now asked them to submit proposals for limiting noise, both during construction and once new facilities are operational.

There would also be a recommended limit on operating the clubhouse and swimming pool to between 8am and 9pm for caravan park residents only. Assurances were also sought on ventilation systems to prevent kitchen odour and dust during construction.

The environmental health submission also said there would have to be a full risk assessment on the creation of a pond area, with the owners having “a duty to protect staff and visitors” at all times.

Noise impact from guests at the park was “largely a management issue” with the official noting the owners’ pledge to create a 24-hour staff presence in living quarters.

Three neighbouring households have lodged comments raising concerns, although only one was classed as an objection.

Thomas and Angela Prag, residents at Easter Muckovie since 1978, were supportive of the owners’ bid to strengthen the business.

In a letter to officials, however, they said the development would alter the outlook from the front of their home in a field previously protected against development.

They asked for better screening of the development with the planting of more mature trees, as well as care over lighting and height, and clarification on access arrangements.

Two other neighbours raised concerns over a potential increase in traffic at the already busy Culloden Road and Tower Road junction.

A revised design statement on behalf of the applicants said the project fitted well with Highland Council’s planning guidelines to support tourism, adding: “Neighbours should not be affected by this proposal.”

Pool and gym plan for Culloden campsite


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