Lost Shore Surf Resort planning permission
Harnessing public affairs to build reputation and trust with target stakeholders and achieve planning approval quickly
The Challenge
Deliver planning permission and the construction of the world’s first inland surf resort within a small village with very vocal environmental activists and potential hostile local residents.
Achieve credibility amongst investors, politicians and government officials and show that it will be a successful addition to the tourism and leisure offering of Scotland.
Our Approach
Regularly engage with the local community and the key influencers such as the community council to understand their concerns and address them before they become a significant issue.
Establish relationships with key stakeholders including government ministers, local and national politicians, to develop support for the project and build their reputation.
Results
Meaningful engagement and support from within the local community through regular newsletters and appearances at community forums.
Visits and meetings with UK Government minister, Scottish Government minister for tourism and Leader of Edinburgh Council.
Public support from local, Holyrood and Westminster politicians in the press and on social media.
Successful private dinner in Houses of Parliament with support from key MPs and Viscount Thurso, then Chair of Visit Scotland.
Outcomes & Impact
Two major planning applications approved at first attempt, saving the project huge amounts of time and cost.
Public support from several influential politicians at all levels of government that can be relied on for assistance when needed.
Open lines of communication for when dealing with any constituent correspondence.
Significant levels of investment secured successfully within target timescales.
The campaign’s exceptional results led to industry recognition, with Perceptive winning Consumer PR Campaign of the Year at the PRMoment Awards 2025.
Client Feedback
“The Perceptive team genuinely feel like an extension of our own and their guidance, insight and their public affairs expertise have been invaluable before, during and after the construction of Lost Shore Surf Resort.
“Being able to bring the community along on our journey as well as cultivating support from political stakeholders was hugely important in ensuring our two planning applications were passed at the first attempt. This saved a huge amount of time and money, enabling us to deliver the project much more efficiently.”
Andy Hadden, Founder of Lost Shore Surf Resort
