A proposal to create glamping pods near Pencaitland, East Lothian, has been put forward by S A Fairgrieve Ltd, marking a renewed effort to introduce accommodations for visitors. The revised plan involves the installation of open-plan pods arranged in two groups of three on a site at Boggs Holdings. The proposal is currently under review by East Lothian Council’s planning department.
The earlier proposal for the glamping pods faced resistance from the Boggs Community Association, primarily due to concerns over security, access, drainage, and noise in the area. These apprehensions led to the initial plan being withdrawn.
A representative from the Boggs Community Association confirmed that more discussions are scheduled to gauge community sentiment on the updated plan. “There will be discussions and those discussions will have people who are for it and people who are against it,” the spokesperson stated, as reported by East Lothian Courier on November 4.
The community spokesperson acknowledged the diverse perspectives surrounding the glamping proposal, noting that opinions remain divided. “If it is similar to the last meeting, the majority were against it but obviously we will have to have another meeting to see if anything has changed.”
The planning application includes a design and access statement detailing the layout and visual impact of the proposed glamping pods. According to this document, the pods are designed to be minimally intrusive, blending with the countryside setting. Developers argue that the pods’ small scale and low profile would prevent them from being visible.
In addition to vehicle parking next to the pods, the proposal encourages guests to explore the local area by bicycle, aiming to promote a more sustainable form of tourism.
The planning document also outlined the anticipated clientele for the glamping site, targeting couples and small families seeking a tranquil, countryside experience. “The site will be operated as a typical [year-round] holiday let, with the pods being rented out on a per-nightly basis,” the statement reads. Party groups, often associated with increased noise and activity, would also not be allowed.
Furthermore, the statement clarifies that the pods will operate as short-term holiday rentals rather than permanent residences. “There is no intention to use the units for long-term lease/permanent residences,” the document noted.
