Loch Ness glamping site approved
A HOLIDAY glamping park overlooking the southern shores of Loch Ness has been given the go-ahead.
The planned development at Clune Farm, Dores, comes amid increased demand for holiday accommodation in the area.
It is also expected to counter growing numbers of camper vans parking overnight in lay-bys around the loch.
In addition, the recent completion of the network of footpaths creating the Loch Ness circuit, together with the demand by cyclists enjoying the challenges of the Etape route, has led to increased demand for short-stay tourist facilities.
The phased development will be carried out over five years and will provide 15 high-quality camping pods and stances for a maximum of 12 camper vans.
It will also include a reception building, toilet block and in the longer term, a two-bedroom self-catering bothy for tourist accommodation.
Highland Council planning officers approved the application using delegated powers and attached seven conditions including the requirement of tree-planting and the installation of signs warning campsite users of the cycle/active travel route.
The application was made by Magnus Grant, of Clunes Farm.
A design statement supplied by MRH Design outlined the case for the project.
“In support of the proposal, it is noted that there are currently camper vans pitching around and, in the village, school car park, farmer’s fields and along the loch side lay-bys with associated issues of waste disposal, high fire risk and disturbance to locals,” it stated.
“There are relatively new camp sites at Culloden, Drumnadrochit and Foyers and these are operating almost at capacity.
“The North Coast 500 route has significantly increased the volume of such traffic to the Highlands and Loch Ness is still an iconic landmark to visit and seems to attract year-round visitor traffic.
“This proposal will meet the demand by tourists for such facilities and is well located to serve an area where there are limited opportunities for tourists to enjoy overnight accommodation.”
Planning officer Elaine Watt concluded the proposals were in line with the local development plan.
The timber-clad pods would be largely screened by trees while the toilet and shower block and bothy were of traditional design. The stone, render and timber construction would be in keeping with local styles.
