Scaled-back proposals for a luxury lodge development in the Borders have been recommended for approval after securing support from a number of trade organisations.

The Rutherford Park project – an £11.6 million project between Carlops and West Linton – has been reduced from more than 250 lodges to 79. It will create 27 jobs.

The initial plan has been revised a number of times, to 180, 150 and 100 lodges before the latest application.

Located on the former Rutherford Castle Estate, it is being progressed by landowner Sandy Lane Resort Rutherford. The project will go before the Borders Council planning committee on Monday.

Organisations backing the plan include: Borders College, Scottish Borders Chamber of Commerce, Scottish Tourism Alliance, South of Scotland Destination Alliance and UK Hospitality Scotland.

A spokesperson for Sandy Lane Resort Rutherford said: “Rutherford Park provides a fantastic opportunity for the Scottish Borders, which has been frequently ignored as a destination, often due to a lack of high-quality outdoor accommodation, and will boost bed nights and spend in the region.

“Additionally, the development will deliver significant ecological enhancements for the site, including the delivery of a minimum of 80,000 trees, parkland, open space and lake areas.”