Update on the St Ninians and Loch Fitty Eco-Therapy Wellness and Leisure Park

Development of the concept Masterplan, being created by world leading Architects Scott Brownrigg, is rapidly taking shape to create an Eco-Leisure and Wellness destination on the 976 acre site, purchased from Hargreaves Land.

The first Masterplan designs simply consisted of a ‘massing exercise’ to determine the placement of proposed physical structures including accommodation units, a wellness spa complex on the water of Loch Fitty, a technology park and areas set aside for entertainment in amongst landscaped bio-diverse ecology sanctuaries. Early concept designs included observation areas on the former Fife Earth Project landform structures, known locally as the ‘walnut whips’.

Irene Bisset, Chair and co-founder of National Pride (St Ninians) Limited, the new owners of the site commented:

“We have had intensive discussions with the Master Planners about the vision for St Ninians and Loch Fitty and ideas are being explored all of the time. Everything is in the mix and early indications are incredibly exciting. Discussions have also commenced with numerous operators wanting to join us to provide entertainment and other experiences. It is a very large site and, as the custodians of this beautiful place, we take very seriously our responsibilities to deliver something wonderful for future generations and for the local community to be proud of”.

Recent visitors to St Ninians and Loch Fitty would have noticed Contractor activity undertaking site maintenance in an intensive schedule of grass cutting, pathway repairs, shrub trimming to allow easier access, improve site safety and enhance the natural beauty of the 976 acres site. The maintenance programme commenced in August 2021 and continued into September. Further planned works will continue throughout October before entering the Winter maintenance schedule in November lasting until April 2022.

Andy Whitlock, Technical Director commented:

“The site is huge and there is a lot of work that is necessary to manage the landscape starting with cutting back the Spring and Summer growth. Our maintenance contractors have done a fabulous job making the site ready for future visitors. Engineers will shortly be coming onto the site to carry out technical and ecology surveys.

Unfortunately, it has also been necessary to increase site security following several incidents of anti-social behaviour that have been reported to us. Site security personnel are now operating to inform motorcyclists that the site has now changed hands and the site is closed to such activity. Warning signs have been erected at strategic points alerting would be visitors to the site restrictions.”

Andy Whitlock further commented:

“We are really disappointed to have to increase on-site security but, given the seriousness of several incidents of anti-social behaviour, we have no choice but to act decisively. We would urge the local community and visitors to be vigilant and highlight to the Police or ourselves any nuisance or damage that may occur”. Anti-social behaviour, trespass and illegal activity on our site will not be tolerated. The protection of the site, the welfare and safety of visitors and the protection of wildlife is our immediate priority. We have had positive comments on our contractors work to rid the site of accumulated dog excrement. Professional dog walkers will be working with us to keep the site safe and clean. Dog waste bins are being installed for responsible dog owners to dispose of their pooches poo safely and hygienically.”

National Pride recently sponsored the 2021 Scottish Coal Carrying Championships and further announcements of community events or community organisations support will be announced as details emerge.