- Comedian and Celebrity Traitors winner Alan Carr has submitted planning proposals to Scottish Borders Council to convert a derelict potting shed on his Ayton Castle estate into a community cafe and shop.
- The 50-year-old television star acquired the 19th-century Grade A-listed property and its surrounding grounds earlier this year, after it was placed on the market with a £3.25 million asking price.
- According to the planning documentation, the proposed development aims to enhance the visitor experience for dog walkers and nature enthusiasts, while providing a local cafe for the nearby village of Ayton.
- The heritage impact assessment outlines plans to preserve the character of the dilapidated single-storey stone structures while adding public toilets and staff facilities, alongside a commitment to restore the estate's walled garden.
- Carr's acquisition and journey of owning the historic Scottish Borders property will feature in an upcoming Disney+ programme.
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