AMBITIOUS expansion plans at a Selkirk farm incorporate luxury glamping pods, car parking for 128 vehicles, construction of a bridge and the promotion of agricultural-related festival events.
Bridgelands Farm says it is committed to sustainable and regenerative farming practices.
As part of a strategy to diversify and strengthen the economic resilience of the farm a planning application has been submitted to Scottish Borders Council for four glamping pods.
The bid also incorporates external decking, grass-grid footpaths, grass-grid parking and turning area, secure bicycle storage, recycling/refuse storage and a package water treatment plant.
It all forms part of a sustainable tourism drive to expand the offer at the farm.
A report with the application, submitted by Cameron Dickie, states: “These eco-friendly accommodations will attract visitors interested in rural tourism and the natural beauty of the Scottish Borders. Staying on a working farm will provide a unique experience that aligns with our commitment to sustainable tourism.
“To support the anticipated increase in visitors, we also propose the construction of a car park with the capacity to hold up to 128 vehicles.
"This car park will serve guests of the glamping pods but will also enable us to expand our offerings to include larger agri-tourism events such as farm-to-table dinners, educational workshops, seasonal festivals, and open farm days.
“The proposed car park will be located on a challenging area of the farm, situated on the north side of Batts Burn.
"This area is difficult to farm due to its proximity to the burn, which requires careful management to prevent degradation of the banks and protect the waterway.
“Currently, we make significant efforts to keep livestock off this land to avoid damaging the burn’s banks and to prevent fouling of the water.
“The proposed car park will utilise a grass-based grid design that is both environmentally friendly and practical for the site.
“This design will allow for the continued use of the land for grazing while minimising the impact on the burn and its surrounding environment.
“Additionally, the installation of a bridge over Batts Burn will provide easy and safe access for the community to visit the farm, further enhancing our ability to engage with the public while maintaining our commitment to environmental stewardship.
“The proposed glamping pods and car park are critical components of our strategy to enhance the sustainability and profitability of Bridgelands Farm.
“By utilising a challenging area of the farm for the car park, we are able to protect the sensitive environment around Batts Burn while creating a space that supports both agri-tourism and sustainable farming practices.
“These developments will benefit the farm, the local community, and the wider region by promoting economic growth, preserving rural heritage, and fostering sustainable tourism.”
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