Hotel expansion set for approval despite horse fall fears

Plans to expand a country house hotel in southern Scotland have been recommended for approval despite fears they could increase risks for horse riders nearby.

The RAD Hotel Group wants to extend its Hetland Hall Hotel near Carrutherstown, creating up to 60 jobs.

A nearby landowner has objected due to concerns that visitors to the proposed lodges might bring dogs which could spook horses.

However, a report to Dumfries and Galloway Council (DGC) said the closest lodge would be about 30ft (9m) from the boundary and that was considered to be "appropriate" separation.

The hotel plans, lodged earlier this year, include 26 extra bedrooms, a spa and wellness facility and the creation of a new wedding and events space along with 10 woodland lodges.

The company said that if they were approved the proposals would "significantly enhance the hotel's wedding, accommodation and leisure offering".

DGC's planning committee is being recommended to approve them.

However, one submission warned that the density of the proposed lodges created "severe safety risks".

"Thoroughbred race horses are highly strung and the proposed residential and leisure areas pose a unique threat to the horses, the public and the riders," it said.

The council report on the hotel expansion noted the objection but concluded steps had been taken to address the concerns.

It said planting had been carried out to fill a gap in the trees in the area and also that the lodges had been positioned to face the hotel rather than the gallops.

It has recommended approval for the plans with a condition attached that any lodges should be removed within two months if they become "redundant or obsolete for any reason".