major milestone

A NEW CENTER PARCS BREAKS GROUND

Posted on May 5, 2026

£450 million village to create 1,200 jobs, new forest, and a landmark destination...

Work has officially begun on Center Parcs’ £450 million Scottish Borders development, marking a major milestone for one of the UK holiday park sector’s most significant upcoming investments. The project, located between Hawick and Selkirk, was formally launched with a ceremonial tree planting attended by John Swinney, alongside local schoolchildren and Center Parcs CEO Colin McKinlay.

The new village is expected to create around 1,200 jobs and contribute £75 million annually to the regional economy, underlining the growing role of large-scale leisure developments in driving rural growth. The Scottish Government has also committed up to £30 million in infrastructure funding to support the scheme.

A defining feature of the project is the creation of an entirely new forest— marking the first time Center Parcs has established woodland from scratch. Hundreds of thousands of trees will be planted, with more than 30 species, forming the natural environment that underpins the brand’s short-break offering.

SCHOOL CHILDREN HELP KICKSTART the creation of Center Parcs Scottish Borders’ brand- new forest, by planting the very first saplings.

For operators, the development highlights the increasing importance of environmental integration and long-term sustainability in new park schemes. Alongside up to 700 lodges, plans include signature Center Parcs amenities such as the Subtropical Swimming Paradise and Aqua Sana Forest Spa, as well as nature-led features including wetlands, wildflower meadows and activity trails.

The scheme also reflects a broader trend towards destination-led experiences, with two new lochs, a nature and heritage centre, and a strong emphasis on outdoor recreation designed to diversify appeal and extend dwell time.

Industry stakeholders have welcomed the investment, with regional development agency South of Scotland Enterprise highlighting the potential for supply chain opportunities and SME growth. Set to open in 2029, the Scottish Borders village will be Center Parcs’ first new UK development since 2019— offering a clear signal of confidence in the long-term strength of the domestic holiday market.

For more information log on to: www.centerparcsscotland.co.uk

THE NEW VILLAGE WILL FEATURE Woodland, lochs, meadows, and nature trails, blending recreation with biodiversity.

JOHN FOWLER GROUP ACQUIRES RUDA PARK

Posted on July 31, 2025

JOHN FOWLER Holidays Leadership Team on Croyde Beach

John Fowler Holidays has announced the high-profile acquisition of Ruda Holiday Park at Croyde Bay from Parkdean Resorts, marking a major milestone for the family-run business. The multi-million-pound deal adds one of the UK’s most iconic coastal holiday parks to the North Devon-based operator’s growing portfolio— bringing its total to 14 parks across the South West and Wales.

“This is a landmark day for us,” said Managing Director Martyn Fowler. “Ruda’s location and reputation are second to none, and we’re proud to continue its legacy.” The 300-acre park features 817 pitches, a glamping village, a tropical pool and flume, multiple food and drink outlets, and direct access to Croyde’s blue flag beach—now under John Fowler’s stewardship.

Parkdean Resorts, who owned Ruda for 23 years, said the sale aligns with its strategic goal to reinvest in its wider UK park network. CEO Steve Richards praised Ruda’s staff and legacy, confident John Fowler will maintain its high standards. The deal cements John Fowler’s position as one of the UK’s largest family-owned holiday park groups, with over 800 employees and a turnover of £50 million. Guests with existing Ruda bookings will be contacted directly as the site transitions to new ownership.