Representatives from the UK's prestigious Camping and Caravanning Club, which boasts 400,000 members, have visited Hawick with a view to developing a touring site in the town – and they have been inspired by Wilton Lodge Park.

The visit was at the request of local councillors in response to the need for new tourist accommodation in Hawick. And after council officials showed the representatives potential locations at St Leonard's Park on the outskirts of town, and an area at the back of Wilton Lodge Park – the latter has been earmarked as a possibility for a lucrative 70 caravan stand site.

Speaking at a meeting of Teviot and Liddesdale Area Committee this week, Bryan McGrath, Scottish Borders Council's Head of Economic Development and Regeneration, said: "The Camping and Caravanning Club representatives were impressed by Wilton Lodge Park, by facilities on offer in Hawick, and by the possibilities offered by the location."

However, the site which has been favoured by the club – who informed council officials that caravanning and camping was a growth sector – is currently home to Hawick Harlequins RFC and comprises the playing field, block of changing rooms and floodlights.

Outlining the other main issues which local councillors and the community has to consider in relation to the concept, Mr McGrath went on: "The site in Wilton Lodge Park faces some significant development issues that would need to be overcome. Access is not ideal being quite tight from both sides of the town, and it will impact on recreation and sports provision which will have to be relocated."

But he added: "This is a very exciting project and real opportunity for Hawick, as the private sector would be making the investment."

Broad cost implications from the Camping and Caravanning Club representatives have suggested that £1.5M to £2M would be required for the permanent 70 caravan site. However, it was heard at the meeting that such investment was likely to be provided by the club – as long as they were able to secure a long lease or purchase the site.
Alluding to such ownership of the park and the legal status, Councillor Ron Smith highlighted the benefit to the town of Hawick Common Good Land being used.

But despite these issues, the committee was unanimous in support of the proposal.

Councillor David Paterson stated: "I don't want this to have a detrimental effect on the park, but the Camping and Caravanning Club made it clear they would fund this project, and it is a golden opportunity for Hawick. We need to grab it with both hands."

And referring to the crucial financial benefits for Hawick, Councillor Stuart Marshall added: "During their visit a representative from the club told me that on average, a person staying at a site spends £40 per head, per day in that area. Something has to happen with this."

Councillors have advised SBC officials to further investigate the proposal for Wilton Lodge Park, which will include appointing staff and resources, as well as seeking other possible sites.