Large golf resort planned for outskirts of Edinburgh, Scotland

Planning consent has been granted for a hotel and leisure development on the edge of Scotland’s capital Edinburgh – the latest project in what is fast-becoming a mini-boom for the nation’s golf course sector.

With the Ryder Cup due to take place at Gleneagles later this month, the latest Scottish golf development follows hot on the heels of the recent acquisition of the Fairmont St Andrews hotel and just months after business tycoon Donald Trump made his latest foray into the market by snapping up the Turnberry golf resort in South Ayrshire.

The latest deal sees a consortium of British businessmen has put its weight behind a development of almost 500 acres on the outskirts of the Scottish capital. The development will include a 240-bedroom resort hotel and a championship golf course designed in conjunction with golfing legend Sandy Lyle, who says the development has potential to rival any in Scotland.

Planners have also given the green light for a phased development of 250 chalet-style villas on the site, which will feature lakes and forestry, an equestrian centre, and other popular outdoor leisure facilities.

“Scotland is crying out for a resort hotel with conference and leisure facilities on a grand scale and this development will help the country compete better internationally,” said Alexandra Hayward of Debutesq Group, which is handling international sales.

The owners have not ruled out selling the development but are at this stage thought to interested in engaging with international hotel operators and resort developers, according to a press statement.