Arial image of Stableyard area at Dalkeith Country Park

Plans for the multi million pound redevelopment of Dalkeith Country Park have been approved by Midlothian Council.

The £3.5million investment includes a series of upgrades, refurbishments and introduction of new facilities taking place at the 1000-acre Country Park over a two year period and beyond, creating around 35 jobs in the process.

The first phase of redevelopment of the Country Park, owned by the Duke of Buccleuch, has gone out to tender with a main contractor expected to be officially appointed by early September.

The initial works involve the full refurbishment and development of the historic Stableyard, the surrounding listed orangery and amphitheatre and the reintroduction of a fantastic new adventure playground. The buildings will feature an improved cafe/restaurant, farm shop and bakery and an array of supporting retail, with the preferred operating partner close to being announced.

The wider Park will have a large variety of activities and attractions which will provide exciting, engaging and educational recreation space for families.

Historic Scotland and Midlothian Council are actively engaged and thoroughly supportive of the proposed plans, having been closely consulted regarding restoration activities on the iconic Orangery, bridges, landscaping and listed buildings.

Ian Herbert, Visitor Services Manager for Dalkeith Country Park, said: “We are thrilled that our plans to revamp the Park have been given the seal of approval.

“As well as creating jobs this significant investment will play an important part in facilitating economic development and growth in the region.

“Since the planning application was submitted in February we have been canvassing views via an online survey and are continuing to liaise with key stakeholders and partners including Scottish Natural Heritage and Historic Scotland.  Our next step will be an open day in August where we will be in a position to share more of our plans in detail with the local community.”

The Park, located just five miles from Edinburgh city centre, will be modernised in a way that is sympathetic to the style, history and heritage of the current buildings.

Jim Bryant, Cabinet Member for Planning and Development at Midlothian Council, said: “Dalkeith Country Park is a great asset to our local community and provides both visitors and locals with a beautiful spot to enjoy the great outdoors. It is also the venue for many large scale events, such as Tough Mudder, which brings a wealth of visitors to our area.

“In fact, this year, we’re looking forward to a bumper year at our second Midfest Festival with some events taking place in the Park. We are delighted to be working in partnership with both the Park and Historic Scotland to bring these redevelopment plans to fruition.”

The open day will take place on Saturday, August 30 at The Stableyard, Dalkeith Country Park, from 12pm – 5pm .

Updates can also be found on Facebook – www.facebook.com/DalkeithCountryEstate

 

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Founding Editor of The Edinburgh Reporter.
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