Murkle camping plan could give a boost to the local economy, says report
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A PLAN to create eight camping pods and associated infrastructure at West Murkle would create "a significant economic benefit" to the area.
That is the claim made in a Design and Access Statement in support of an application lodged by local man, Gary Sutherland.
The proposed Glamp and Camp plan would "offer contemporary, luxury accommodation to visitors" and be suitable for weekend trips and short breaks. It could also attract people on the popular North Coast 500 tourist route as it is approximately one mile from the A836 Castletown to Thurso road.
The development, which has been submitted to Highland Council, is expected to create two jobs – one full-time and one part-time.
"The concept of luxury glamping is now gaining popularity throughout the UK, with standards and guests’ expectations on the rise. It is intended by the site operator that this site will be the best available in the area. At the moment, there is little presence in the Caithness area offering this kind of luxury unit accommodation giving guests exclusive facilities and unique offerings with breathtaking views and luxury glamping units," says the statement.
It adds: "The proposed glamping site will provide a new and exciting accommodation option to the area. Demand for this type of accommodation is high throughout the country which has also been shown to be true of other glamping sites within the UK. The site being on the NC500 route further justifies the need for this type of accommodation and motor home pitches.
"This development will increase footfall for local businesses and through correct marketing, should increase the length of time tourists remains in the area. This will be beneficial for local tourist attractions, restaurants, and businesses."
The document points out that the proposal would comprise a total of eight handmade glamping units with hot tubs and three motor home pitches for guests along with recycling/waste, cycle store and reception area, storage/service area and shower facilities. There would be individual parking areas and an additional five spaces, one having an electric vehicle charging point.
A treatment plant, with associated soakaway and groundworks, is intended for drainage of the eight units and hot tubs. All units would be manufactured off-site and delivered to West Murkle.
The statement says: "The proposal will have many benefits to the local economy, through the additional use of tourist attractions, while also using local amenities like local shops and pubs."
The development would be positioned away from the road while an existing access point to the site will be used and improved.
The units will be clad in timber with green roofs and have been designed "to be extremely energy efficient." Cycling will be promoted while guests stay on-site, with cycle parking facilities provided.
The document points out there is demand for tourist accommodation in the area and claims there will be no adverse effects on the surroundings as it is "a small-scale development."
