Whispers of Tesco abandoning its plans for a new Pitlochry store have been circulating due to construction delays and a recent ecological survey conducted on the site, which, curiously, referenced Sainsbury’s. Rest assured, the arrival of Tesco remains firmly on the horizon, though the opening date has been pushed back.
Initial projections suggested the supermarket, located near the intersection of Perth Road and Bridge Road, would open its doors to eager shoppers in May 2025. However, with construction yet to commence, locals began to speculate about the project’s future. Adding fuel to the fire, West Ranga Group, the Dundee-based landowner, recently published an otter survey that repeatedly mentioned Sainsbury’s in connection with the site. This naturally led many to question Tesco’s involvement. Sainsbury’s Survey Adds to Confusion, But Tesco Still on Track
The 27-page ecological report, a necessary step in discharging pre-commencement planning conditions, was filed under Sainsbury’s name, likely due to the fact Sainsbury’s initially held planning permission to develop a supermarket at the same location back in 2011. These plans were ultimately shelved in 2015 due to viability concerns, paving the way for Tesco to take over. Despite the lingering Sainsbury’s references in the survey documentation, Tesco is still slated to build under the existing planning consent, with the otter survey fulfilling a requirement of that consent. The heart of the delay, however, remains somewhat of a mystery. Projected Opening Pushed to Summer 2026
While the specifics of the development deal remain undisclosed, sources suggest that a final agreement hasn’t yet been signed. Although a “transaction risk” has been acknowledged, should negotiations conclude successfully, construction is anticipated to begin within six weeks. A 12-month build timeline puts the estimated opening of the Pitlochry Tesco sometime in the summer of 2026. This timeframe is, of course, subject to change depending on the progress of the aforementioned deal and subsequent construction.
While details about the store’s size and layout might be subject to revisions, the initial plans showcased an impressive 25,000+ sq ft of retail space, complemented by 177 customer parking bays. This new supermarket would be a significant addition to Pitlochry, which currently relies on the Co-op located on West Moulin Road. The next nearest Tesco branches are a significant distance away – a 23-mile drive to Blairgowrie or 30 miles to Perth. For residents of Pitlochry and surrounding areas, the new Tesco promises increased shopping convenience and a wider range of choices.
This development forms part of a wider retail expansion across Perth and Kinross. The area is buzzing with anticipated store and restaurant openings, signaling economic growth and promising an exciting time for the local community. The influx of new businesses not only brings more jobs but also diversifies the choices available to local residents, enhancing the fabric of life in Perthshire. This is a testament to the area’s vitality and an exciting time for residents eager to see what these developments will bring.
Initial projections suggested the supermarket, located near the intersection of Perth Road and Bridge Road, would open its doors to eager shoppers in May 2025. However, with construction yet to commence, locals began to speculate about the project’s future. Adding fuel to the fire, West Ranga Group, the Dundee-based landowner, recently published an otter survey that repeatedly mentioned Sainsbury’s in connection with the site. This naturally led many to question Tesco’s involvement. Sainsbury’s Survey Adds to Confusion, But Tesco Still on Track
The 27-page ecological report, a necessary step in discharging pre-commencement planning conditions, was filed under Sainsbury’s name, likely due to the fact Sainsbury’s initially held planning permission to develop a supermarket at the same location back in 2011. These plans were ultimately shelved in 2015 due to viability concerns, paving the way for Tesco to take over. Despite the lingering Sainsbury’s references in the survey documentation, Tesco is still slated to build under the existing planning consent, with the otter survey fulfilling a requirement of that consent. The heart of the delay, however, remains somewhat of a mystery. Projected Opening Pushed to Summer 2026
While the specifics of the development deal remain undisclosed, sources suggest that a final agreement hasn’t yet been signed. Although a “transaction risk” has been acknowledged, should negotiations conclude successfully, construction is anticipated to begin within six weeks. A 12-month build timeline puts the estimated opening of the Pitlochry Tesco sometime in the summer of 2026. This timeframe is, of course, subject to change depending on the progress of the aforementioned deal and subsequent construction.
While details about the store’s size and layout might be subject to revisions, the initial plans showcased an impressive 25,000+ sq ft of retail space, complemented by 177 customer parking bays. This new supermarket would be a significant addition to Pitlochry, which currently relies on the Co-op located on West Moulin Road. The next nearest Tesco branches are a significant distance away – a 23-mile drive to Blairgowrie or 30 miles to Perth. For residents of Pitlochry and surrounding areas, the new Tesco promises increased shopping convenience and a wider range of choices.
This development forms part of a wider retail expansion across Perth and Kinross. The area is buzzing with anticipated store and restaurant openings, signaling economic growth and promising an exciting time for the local community. The influx of new businesses not only brings more jobs but also diversifies the choices available to local residents, enhancing the fabric of life in Perthshire. This is a testament to the area’s vitality and an exciting time for residents eager to see what these developments will bring.