Green-light given to wigwam pods at Nethy Bridge outdoor centre

Planning permission has been granted for up to seven pods and a bathroom block by Abernethy Trust's outdoor centre in Nethy Bridge.

Highland Council planners have given the green light using their delegated planning powers for the Christian centre to expand its operation.

The site is located to the north-west of the House of Abernethy and to the east of the existing dry ski slope.

Council planning officer Lauren Neil stated that the proposed holiday pods will vary in design but are similar to other tourism developments within the wider area.

There will be five pods on the lower section of land to the north to be wigwam design covered entirely in timber cladding and measuring approximately six metres long by 3.15m wide and three metres at their highest point.

The ‘leader pod’ to the southeast of the site is to be of similar design although measuring slightly smaller.

There will be one pod designed for disabled access which is to be located to the southeast of the site which it to be T-shaped in form.

The community facility comprises toilets and wash space. It is to be generally rectangular shaped and will measure approximately 10m long by 2.8m wide and will be a mixture of timber clad and metal clad with a flat roof.

Parking and turning for up to five cars will be located close by.

Granting consent, Ms Neil stated in her report: "The pods are to be scattered throughout the wooded area, the chosen locations within the largest gaps in the trees.

"Although some tree removal will be required, planting will be done as part of the development to help replace the lost tree stock."

The site itself is not within any Special Area of Conservation although it is close to the Allt Mor which is part of the River Spey Special Area of Conservation which is of note for both salmon and otters.

The site is located around 260m south of the Craigmore Wood SAC at its closest point.

Ms Neil said: "It is noted that there are many recreational activities taking place within the area around the application site, including the dry ski slope on the western boundary. Furthermore, the site is adjacent to the existing Abernethy Outdoor Centre."

She concluded: "The proposal will develop the area for up to seven holiday pods of a similar design to those found on various other tourism development within the wider area and elsewhere in the Highlands.

"The designs of these and their placement on the site are considered to be acceptable."

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