Unused South Scotland Mansion Approved for Holiday Complex Development

Irvine House, a long-unused mansion in south Scotland, has been approved for conversion into a holiday complex featuring 137 lodges, creating jobs and boosting the local economy.

Country Mansion Set for Major Holiday Complex Transformation

A country mansion in the south of Scotland, which has remained unused for an extended period, has received approval to be transformed into the centrepiece of a substantial holiday complex.

Dumfries and Galloway Council (DGC) has granted planning permission for the conversion and extension of Irvine House, located near Canonbie, alongside the construction of nearly 140 holiday lodges on the surrounding land.

Ed Morris, estate manager at Buccleuch's Borders Estate, expressed satisfaction with the approval, stating the estate was "delighted" that the project had been given the green light.

The development is expected to generate approximately 36 jobs once operational and contribute an estimated £3.4 million annually to the local economy.

Community and Economic Impact

"This is a very positive step forward for an important heritage asset which has been unused for too long, and it provides an opportunity to bring new life and purpose to the site,"

said Morris.

"The development will create high-quality holiday accommodation in a beautiful part of Dumfries and Galloway, supporting jobs, local businesses and the wider visitor economy.

"We have worked carefully to bring forward a scheme that respects the setting and history of Irvine House while delivering long-term economic benefits for the local area."

The plans include the construction of 137 holiday lodges, a slight reduction from the original proposal of nearly 140, which will be situated on land adjacent to the mansion.

A side view of Irvine House a white and granite mansion house surrounded by grass and trees — Image caption, More than 130 holiday lodges would be built on the site near the River Esk

Historical and Location Details

Irvine House is situated midway between Langholm and Canonbie on the west bank of the River Esk. The mansion was originally constructed around 1792 and underwent remodelling approximately 45 years later.

The approved plans involve repairing and adapting Irvine House to serve as a welcome centre and provide holiday accommodation, integrating the historic structure into the new development.