Two glamping pods have been approved for development on land east of Carfrae Farmhouse, situated between Gifford and Garvald in East Lothian.
The application, submitted by Agritourism Accommodation Ltd, outlines the pods as open-plan structures designed to serve short-term holidaymakers. The internal layout includes a sleeping area, a kitchenette, a sofa, a dining space, and a shower room.
East Lothian Council granted planning permission with the stipulation that the pods be used exclusively for short-term lets.
The decision followed a review of the plans and received no objections from the public during the consultation period.
According to documentation submitted with the application, the developers project high occupancy levels during the warmer months. They expect usage rates above 80 percent in spring, summer, and autumn.
For the winter months, projected occupancy drops to approximately 30 percent, or 27 days, according to a report by East Lothian Courier.
While no formal launch date was provided, the planning documents suggest the pods are intended for use year-round, contributing to the broader trend of extending the operational season in the rural tourism sector.
The application was supported with architectural drawings showcasing compact but functional interior layouts, designed to attract short-stay guests.
For professionals in the outdoor hospitality sector, this approval reflects continued local authority support for small-scale, rural glamping developments, particularly those aligned with agritourism strategies.
Carfrae Farm, which is located in an area popular for walking and countryside retreats, may see increased visitor interest as a result of these new accommodations.
This case demonstrates the importance of aligning planning applications with community and council expectations.
The absence of objections may also suggest growing local acceptance of glamping as a low-impact form of tourism that can bring economic benefits to rural areas.
Developers and park operators may take note of the scale and scope of this approved project when considering similar proposals.