Hotel eyesore

Sir, Arran Civic Trust has been unable to identify the owner of the derelict McLaren Hotel. This hotel has been an eyesore on the Brodick front for a number of years, a topic of remark to visitors and an exasperating blight to locals. The trust’s view is that any private property owner should respect the community where the property is situated and ensure that it does not become an embarrassment to the village.

We understand that local authorities do have some power with regard to cases like this though they are reluctant to use them but, in this instance of dereliction over years in such a prominent place, we feel that action is justified. The owner needs to be found, the fences removed, the gardens reinstated, the building made secure but painted and made presentable followed by clear plans for its future or the future of the site within a timescale which does not stretch to eternity.

Yours, John Inglis chairman Arran Civic Trust