Scottish Borders Council is expected to grant planning approval next week for the development at Huntlaw Farm, Hassendean, near Hawick. Alongside the leisure facilities, the project will generate between 750 and 800 construction jobs during the build phase, before creating around 1,200 long-term roles once operational.

Speaking at a meeting of the council’s executive committee this week, Russel Griggs, chair of South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE), told councillors that securing accommodation for the workforce will be a “big challenge”.

He warned that without proactive planning, the influx of employees could strain existing housing stock in Hawick and surrounding communities.

“We’re going to need housing for the 1,200 people who work at Center Parcs,” Griggs said. “We must ensure the Borders can take full advantage of the £27m annual economic spend this project is expected to bring.”

The announcement has already triggered interest from the housebuilding sector. Within weeks of the project being unveiled, developers began contacting SOSE to enquire about available land for residential schemes.

Griggs noted: “The more visibility we give to what is happening here, the more it will encourage housebuilders to step forward.”