One of Scotland’s most prestigious hotels has raised concerns about noise, public nuisance and transport disruption as the country’s biggest music festival may be homed just over a mile away.
Although the hotel has not formally objected to the plans, they have written a letter of comment where they outline multiple concerns about the event.
The music festival has left its home at Balado in Perth and Kinross and is seeking to set up camp near Auchterarder in Perthshire.
However, hotel management are concerned that the noisy festival will disrupt guests expecting a relaxing break, as music from the festival could be heard in previous years – on a clear day – when it was staged 12 miles away.
In a letter from solicitors Colliers International acting on behalf of Gleneagles Hotel, the law firm tells the council: “Our clients have real concern regarding the audible noise levels from the main stage during the event, specifically because it is understood that the main stage faces the hotel.”
Staff at Gleneagles Hotel have also expressed concerns that the loud music could disrupt horses at the hotel’s equestrian centre at Tullibardine Wood.
Issues raised include; the amount of traffic T in the Park is likely to bring to the area, and the danger of unofficial “satellite” camp grounds being set up, with the hotel stating “this is a regular occurence at music festivals and the probability of it happened here should not be disregarded.
“Such campsites typically fail to benefit from any kind of formal security or policing, therefore issues of noise, nuisance, pollution and safety are a genuine concern for residents and businesses alike.”
Organisers have also confirmed the road crossing at the ornamental lake will not be used by pedestrians.
Gleneagles Hotel managing director Bernard Murphy, said: “We have not objected to the event taking place. As part of the public consultation we have raised some specific matters about which we would like to have greater clarity.
“These matters principally concern noise, traffic management and public nuisance and have been discussed with DF Concerts over recent months.
“We hope that by raising these matters at an early stage, DF Concerts and the various public agencies involved will be able to be address them to minimise their impact on the local community.
“We recognise the appetite for this event and how important it is for tourism, but also want to ensure the best possible experience for our guests.”