A proposal to develop five glamping pods near the Fairy Glen in Rosemarkie has raised concerns within Highland Council, particularly regarding road safety and flood risk.
The council’s transport planning team has objected to the plans due to “insufficient visibility for drivers from the site access onto the A832 public road” and a lack of necessary road-related information.
However, officials indicated that the objection could be withdrawn if the developer meets specific requirements, including upgrading the access point and ensuring proper surface water drainage.
The proposed glamping pods, intended as a year-round accommodation option, aim to cater to visitor demand while contributing to the local economy. However, concerns extend beyond road access, according to a report by the Ross-shire Journal.
The Dingwall flood risk management team previously noted that part of the site has been identified as at risk of flooding and has requested additional details to assess the extent of the issue and how it will be managed.
In addition to council concerns, Fortrose and Rosemarkie Community Council has highlighted potential challenges, including the lack of a pedestrian route from Rosemarkie, wastewater management capacity, and the use of chemicals in the hot tubs featured in the pods.
The transport team has also called for a Construction Traffic Management Plan to outline how the prefabricated pods will be delivered and installed while minimizing disruption to surrounding businesses and residents.
A statement on behalf of applicant Toby Watson underscores the project’s potential benefits, stating that the glamping pods “would be a year-round operation meeting demand from visitors and providing a boost to the local economy.”
The proposal follows a growing trend in the outdoor hospitality sector, where glamping operators seek to balance visitor demand with environmental and infrastructure considerations.
For glamping site developers and operators, this case highlights key planning hurdles that must be addressed when selecting locations and navigating regulatory approvals.
Road safety compliance, flood risk mitigation, and construction impact planning are critical factors that can influence project approval.
As demand for unique outdoor accommodations continues to grow, ensuring proper infrastructure and regulatory alignment will be essential for long-term success.