Outdoor Hospitality News

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Highland Council Considers Expansion of Ross-shire Glamping Site

Plans for the expansion of an existing glamping site near Strathpeffer are currently under consideration by Highland Council, following the submission of a planning application by Highland Heights Luxury Camping.

The proposal relates to land at Heights of Inchvannie in Ross-shire and seeks permission for the addition of four further glamping lodges. According to planning background papers, the total site area associated with the application extends to 1,864 square metres.

The documents describe the existing operation as a “commercially successful glamping site currently comprising 4 lodges with reception, parking and bike shelter.” The applicant states that the site currently provides 18 vehicle parking spaces, which would remain in place under the proposed development.

The application outlines that the new accommodation units would be “permanently sited moveable off-site constructed glamping lodges.” No changes are proposed to waste handling arrangements, with existing provision set to be retained.

In terms of infrastructure, the plans include private drainage arrangements involving the installation of a 12-person tank linked to the site’s existing septic tank soakaway. 

According to Ross-shire Journal, a private water supply is also proposed as part of the development. These elements will be assessed as part of the planning process to ensure compliance with environmental health and local authority requirements.

The application has been lodged on behalf of applicant Richard Simpson of Highland Heights Luxury Glamping, Heights of Inchvannie, Strathpeffer. The plans were submitted by Nairn-based architectural design agent Kenny Spink. 

The proposal is now subject to the standard Highland Council planning assessment process, which includes consultation with relevant statutory bodies and consideration of any public representations received during the determination period.

For professionals operating within the outdoor hospitality, glamping, caravan, and RV sectors, the proposal highlights continued incremental expansion within established rural sites rather than large-scale developments. 

Such projects demonstrate how operators are seeking to scale capacity while maintaining existing infrastructure, a model that may offer lower risk and more manageable capital investment. 

The application also underlines the importance of early consideration of servicing arrangements, including drainage, water supply, and parking, which remain key factors in the planning outcomes for glamping developments across rural Scotland.

A decision will be made by Highland Council once the assessment process is complete.

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