The redevelopment of an old Perthshire golf course could create around 350 jobs and pump £3.5 million into the local economy, councillors have been told.
Part of the defunct Glenisla course, near Alyth, is being transformed into a new village with scores of homes and a new hotel.
Phase one of the project, which includes a 60-bed care home, 20 houses and three “flexible” business units across 125 acres, has now been backed by councillors.
Members of Perth and Kinross Council’s planning and development committee approved the proposal after hearing how it will revitalise the area.
The planned care home will be run by Healthcare Management Solutions, one of the UK’s biggest care service providers, and will have a particular emphasis on people living with dementia.
The under-performing Glenisla course was sold off in 2016. Nine holes have now been incorporated into the neighbouring Alyth Golf Course, while the clubhouse is still in use as a cafe.
New owners Glenisla Developments hope the course will help attract people to the area.
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The firm’s planning consultant Malcolm Smith said: “The development as a whole aims to provide specialist care facilities with a 60-bed care home, as well as new employment a range of new homes, some tourist development and environmental improvements.”
He said the care complex had been designed with input from Stirling University’s dementia services development centre. “They are recognised internationally for their knowledge and expertise with dementia care,” he said.
The 20 homes in phase one will include assisted living bungalows, with extra support provided by staff at the care home.
Mr Smith said: “This development will contribute positively to the local economy, generating both employment and additional income.
“The socio-economic report that was commissioned as part of this project suggested there could be as many as 120 jobs locally, and 175 more in the wider area.
“There will be a £3.5 million of additional income into the local economy. And there will be employment for around 60 people during the construction stage.”
He Smith added: “This is a proposal with the funding and contractor in place and ready to go. The care home operator is also in place.”
He said work was expected to begin next year, with the care home up and running by 2020.
