A REVISED bid for a major holiday lodge complex near a Borders village has been unveiled.

The proposed development at Rutherford Castle, located close to West Linton, has twice faced community opposition.

Original proposals which emerged in 2018 included plans for more than 250 holiday lodges. They were then reduced to include 150 units – a mix of 100 lodges, tree houses, pods and camping space – last year.

Now landowner Sandy Lane Resort Rutherford Ltd, which says it has taken “community feedback” into account, has returned to the table with a scaled-back bid.

Under the plans – which the firm says have been submitted to Scottish Borders Council – 79 lodges would be built, as well as a supplies shop and reception.

A spokesperson for Sandy Lane Resort Rutherford said: “The Scottish Borders is a region that has a unique history, culture and landscape, but is frequently ignored as a destination, often due to a lack of high-quality outdoor accommodation. A development such as Rutherford Park will serve to take advantage of the growing short break staycation market, as well as increased visitor demand generally, boosting bed nights and spend in the region.

“What is being proposed is a greatly reduced scheme from the one originally envisaged, taking account of community concerns, and will not only deliver an economic boost to the Borders, but also provide major ecological enhancements for the site, including the delivery of a minimum of 80,000 trees.”

A ‘pitch and putt’ offering and tennis and padel facilities form part of the bid.

Two ‘redundant’ outbuildings would be demolished, while the golf clubhouse would be reused to include catering and gym facilities.

The firm estimates that around 27 jobs would be created if the development goes ahead.

A frequent minibus service to West Linton would be provided for visitors, as well as electric bikes, according to the company.

West Linton Community Council has rejected the previous two versions of the plans.

At a meeting last year concerns were raised over potential flood risk, the need for a holiday park in the location, landscape and visual impact, and traffic, among others.