Plant hire firm unveils £34m Perthshire hotel and transport museum plans

A plant machinery firm has revealed proposals for a £33.8 million development in Perthshire featuring a four-star hotel and transport museum.

The proposed development at West Kinfauns could support 170 direct jobs in hospitality, retail and leisure. Picture: contributed.

Morris Leslie said the development close to its headquarters at West Kinfauns will draw tourists to the area and could support 170 direct on-site jobs in hospitality, retail and leisure roles.

As well as a hotel, the outline plans include lodge-style cabins and a museum that will tell the story of transport and vehicles over the last century.

A proposal of application notice has been submitted to Perth and Kinross Council, with a consultation set to be held in March.

The site has already been identified as a location for a proposed park and ride, which has planning consent, and the intention is to incorporate this facility into the development, if progressed by the council.

Morris Leslie, chairman of the company, said the development would maximise the potential of the location and draw tourism to the area on a local and national basis.

“Well-connected to the surrounding road network, including the A90, this premium destination will provide a gateway to Perth, to the surrounding area and beyond.

“The proposed scheme is of a scale that can support additional development and is ideally placed in terms of transport connection. It is also in a beautiful location with wonderful views.”

Caroline Warburton, VisitScotland’s regional leadership director, said the plans were an “incredibly appealing prospect for Perthshire and for Scotland as a whole, drawing tourists to the marvellous attractions in the area and creating much-needed jobs”.

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