A caravan site in Ayr, Scotland, is set for significant upgrades following the recent approval of development plans by South Ayrshire Council.
Craigie Gardens Caravan Club, owned by the Caravan and Motorhome Club, submitted an application in March 2025 seeking to improve infrastructure and amenities on the property located on Craigie Road.
The approved project includes the installation of 10 serviced all-weather pitches, a replacement toilet block and store, and a new play area equipped with modern, safety-focused features.
Additional enhancements involve the construction of a dog wash and bike repair station situated near new water booster tanks. Currently, the site operates with 90 pitches for touring caravans, none of which are serviced.
According to the design and access statement submitted with the application, the upgrades are intended to respond to both member feedback and health and safety concerns.
The owners stated: “The site currently lacks serviced pitches, therefore it is proposed to install 10No. serviced pitches on site.”
Addressing structural limitations of existing facilities, the statement continued:
“The unique layout of the existing toilet block does not lend itself well to be reconfigured to address member’s complaints, and it has therefore been proposed that we replace it with a new building offering a more efficient arrangement.”
The play area will also see a complete overhaul due to its current poor condition.
“The existing play area is in poor condition and causes numerous health and safety issues on site,” the report noted in Ayrshire Today.
The replacement will be “designed and installed by a specialist company” and will feature a mix of play equipment, a rubberized safety surface, and secure fencing with two access points.
A planning officer from South Ayrshire Council approved the development, noting the work would remain within the existing boundaries of the site and would not adversely impact the surrounding environment.
“As the proposals are contained to the existing site of the caravan park, which is screened by the existing mature woodland, it is not considered that the development shall have a detrimental impact on the visual amenity of the locale,” the officer stated.
With no nearby residential properties and educational institutions being the closest neighboring facilities, the officer concluded that the refurbishment posed minimal disruption to the area.
“It is not considered that the proposals would result in any detrimental impact on the amenity of the locale,” the report concluded.
Approval is contingent on conditions that include planting four new trees to maintain woodland integrity and detailing flood risk mitigation measures.
For professionals in the outdoor hospitality sector, this development underscores the growing importance of upgrading core infrastructure in line with guest expectations and safety standards.
Investments in amenities such as serviced pitches, modern sanitation facilities, and family-friendly recreation areas can enhance operational value and guest satisfaction.
Operators may view Craigie Gardens’ approach as a model for strategically addressing both member feedback and regulatory expectations within established sites.