Murrayshall Country Estate awarded planning permission for multi-million-pound spa and leisure centre

Rural Scottish retreat Murrayshall Country Estate has received the green light for its £30 million (US$38 million, €34.8 million) masterplan by Perth & Kinross Council.

The proposal includes plans for an extension to the 40-key four-star hotel in Scone, Perthshire, as well as the addition of a new spa and leisure facility with eight treatment rooms, a spa pool, a spa cafe, a gym and studio, a leisure pool and an outdoor spa terrace. At present, the hotel's wellness offering consists of a menu of spa treatments supplied by the Hebridean seaweed skincare brand, ishga.

Proposed updates also include a new outdoor pursuits area, glamping units, lodges and the potential for residential development.

Gary Silcock, general manager for Murrayshall, said: “We’re delighted with the council’s decision to approve our masterplan application.

“The decision to approve our proposals in principle is the first step in a new chapter for Murrayshall – a journey from challenges to opportunities, fostering growth, employment and ultimately providing an asset to be enjoyed by the local community.

“Reflecting on our past endeavours – including a substantial investment of £5 million (US$6.3 million, € 5.8 million) – we recognise the significance of this milestone.

“This approval unlocks a potential investment of around £169 million (US$213.9 million, €196 million) across Perth and Kinross and Scotland, while potentially securing 400 job opportunities.”

Built in 1664, Murrayshall is set in 365 acres of green space, encompassing woodland, part of the River Tay, two parkland golf courses, two restaurants and stately gardens.

The property was formerly home to Lord Lyndedoch and transformed into a luxury boutique countryside estate in 1973.