MORE than 60 jobs are to be created at a Borders golf resort following a takeover this week.

German-based developer and hotel operating firm 12.18. has bought the luxurious Roxburghe Hotel and Golf Course near Kelso.

And they are planning to spend more £30 million in developing the business.

Managing Partners Jörg Lindner and Kai Richter signed the purchase agreement with former owner the Duke of Roxburghe in Edinburgh earlier this week.

Mr Richter told the Border Telegraph: "We are excited about our new investment in Scotland and are confident that the acquisition of the Roxburghe Hotel and Golf Course will not only enrich our portfolio but will also be profitable for the entire region."

The Roxburghe is regarded as one of the region's finest hotels.

The 19th century country house features 22 bedrooms as well as a stylish restaurant and bar.

12.18. will carry out an extensive refurbishment of the building while adding an extension to create a further 57 additional rooms as well as a luxurious spa and a state-of-the-art meeting space.

Plans are also being developed for 60 lodges to be built in the grounds.

The Duke of Roxburghe is confident the hotel's heritage will be respected by the new owners.

He stated: "The plans which the new owners have for major investment in the Roxburghe are very exciting indeed.

"We wish 12.18. every success with the new development and the operation in future and I have no doubt that it will become one of the most outstanding resort destinations in Scotland.

"I would like to pay particular thanks to all the staff who have worked with great dedication to deliver exceptional standards of service to our guests over the years.”

During the forthcoming development the hotel will be closed but the golf course and its clubhouse will remain open.

It is expected that the number of staff employed at the hotel and golf course will more than double from 50 to well over 100 once the development is complete.

Some hotel staff will be redeployed during the closure or offered alternative employment at other 12.18 operations.

And all current staff will return to the Roxburghe when it reopens.

Mr Lindner explained: ‘We expect that after the complete redevelopment of the celebrated Roxburghe Hotel and Golf Course and the new available rooms on the ground, the number of staff being employed with us will be more than doubled.

"Regional business, restaurants and shops will economically benefit from the tourist development in the region.”

Throughout the hotel, golf clubhouse and lodges, 12.18. will be engaging Kitzig Interior Design with whom they have worked extensively throughout their existing hospitality portfolio.

Edinburgh based company ISA architects has been hired for the architectural design and master-planning of the new buildings.

ISA is an award-winning architecture and interior de- sign practice working across the UK for some of the country´s leading businesses.

The golf clubhouse including the gastronomy and pro-shop shall also be revitalised and given a modern make-over after the summer season.