Scone Palace, the the ancient seat of coronations for Scottish kings, is expected to undergo a £10m refurbishment.
Perth and Kinross councillors will have the final say on whether the proposals by Viscount Stormont to create a new visitor centre, adventure playpark, and remodelled entrance route can go ahead.
Harry Taylor & Company has been enlisted to remodel a disused stable block north of the main palace to accommodate the changes that include a cafe, shop and ticket office.
The plans are part of a long-term vision to revitalise the venue following the return of the Stone of Destiny to nearby Perth Museum earlier this year. According to the Palace, this has created major opportunities to attract new audiences and strengthen local tourism links.
The development would also introduce a 294-space car park to the north of the estate, new cycling and pedestrian links from Stormontfield Road, and a “solar meadow” of around 2,000 panels to support green energy generation.
If approved, the existing access from the A93 would close to general traffic, with visitors instead arriving through a newly-constructed approach shared with Perth Racecourse.
The proposal, submitted by Stormont Trading, also includes EV charging points, air-source heat pumps and an innovative reed and willow wastewater system.
Viscount Stormont, whose family have been custodians of Scone Palace for 400 years, described the project as a “major opportunity to evolve and enhance the visitor attraction.”
He said: “The proposals will provide jobs locally, and they will enable renewed and lasting engagement with the local community. It represents a positive step-change in our offering.”
The investment follows extensive public consultation in 2022 and 2023.
Councillors on the planning committee will consider the recommendation when they meet on Wednesday.
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