Planners have given the green light for work to start on a hotel and golf course development located near the Scottish village of Carnwath in Lanarkshire.

The 500-acre Kersewell Estate on the outskirts of the Scottish capital will include an 18-hole championship golf course designed by New Zealand architect Scott Macpherson in collaboration with golfing legend Sandy Lyle, who says the development has the potential to rival any in Scotland.

“It is a wonderful piece of property and a considerable amount of effort has gone into finding the best routing for the course,” said Macpherson.

Planning consent has also been granted for a phased development of 250 chalet style villas on the site, which will feature lakes and forestry, an equestrian centre, and other popular outdoor leisure facilities.

“Scotland is crying out for a resort hotel with conference and leisure facilities on a grand scale and this development will help the country compete better internationally,” said Alexandra Hayward of Debutesq Group, which is handling international sales.