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We asked for readers’ thoughts about the impact of the new 81-bedroom Premier Inn that will soon be constructed in Oban.

Andy Elkerton offered: ‘It’ll undoubtedly be a boon. A Premier Inn isn’t like a luxury Hotel in Dubai where nobody has to leave because everything they need is within it’s own four walls. The people staying there will explore the town, spend their cash, and contribute to the community. When holidaying in a new place your average tourist doesn’t usually restrict their “sightseeing” to the inside of their hotel room or somewhere like Wetherspoons.’

Willie Reid asked: ‘It’s right beside a travel hub. Hands up how many people have stayed at a premier inn or travelodge at a service station and wandered into town to shop.’

Debbie Wright cheered: ‘My partner

and I visit Oban a great deal .. We love the town .. I personally would only book the Premier Inn if I had little option ... so many lovely BnBs for comparable money ..it wouldn’t tempt me as a first choice.’

Arlene Campbell agreed: ‘ Can only improve – it will make other hotels consider the rates they offer for the actual product they have therefore attracting more guests to their hotels/B&B too... it is a good thing for the town

Ashley Mckerron wrote: ‘give people on a budget more choice of where to stay, could even maybe see more tourists coming to oban at xmas/new year now they can have somewhere to stay that dosent cost the earth, more jobs, more money into the businesses.’

Séamus Jim MacAoidh pondered: ‘How’s the parking going to be? Will what’s left of the roads take it? How

much rubbish will it create every three weeks?’

Keith Miller agreed: ‘ None of these issues even crossed the minds of our esteemed elected members and planning officials when they nodded approval through... another Jedi Mind Trick.’

Kenny Carmichael countered: ‘ Supposed to be a 90 space car park along with hotel plans.’

Bob Blainey lamented: ‘Kill the local business and keep even more tourists on the pier end. Train- Spoons- Premier inn - Ferry - train. No need to see any of Oban. A bit like the tour boats. “Keep moving nothing to see here”.’

David Livingstone replied: ‘Jeez - you must be fun on holiday!’

Jann Hodges worried: ‘Horrendous for local business.’

Richard Ross said simply: ‘More jobs More competition.’