Controversial Kings House Hotel revamp approved
HIGHLAND councillors have approved controversial plans to refurbish the Kings House Hotel at Glencoe.
The planned overhaul of the original 17th-century droving inn was given the green light by Highland Council last week and owners Black Corries Estate Ltd are looking to begin work as soon as possible.
The £10 million revamp will see a three-storey, 60-bedroom hotel erected on the landmark site in Glencoe. Work has been under way since last year, with parts of the existing building already demolished.
The plans have proved controversial, with several objections being lodged against the original planning application.
Mountaineering Scotland was one of the main objectors to the plans, saying the ‘industrial-style building’ would be ‘completely out of character both with the original building and the surrounding landscape which is part of a much-loved National Scenic Area’. Objections also came from leading conservation organisations the John Muir Trust and the National Trust for Scotland which urged the council to reject the plans on the grounds that the designs were not in-keeping with the surrounding area. The owners did, however, receive support from local residents, businesses and the community council, which welcomed the investment into the local economy. The project team behind the plans said they were delighted with the council’s decision.
James Allan of managing agents Bidwells said: ‘This is a superb result for our client who has been very focused on providing a well-thought-out project which will bring employment to the area and encourage more visitors to this stunning part of Scotland.
‘The plans for the hotel are in-keeping with the majestic environment and our client is very focused on making this a sustainable project which complements their existing business interests elsewhere in Scotland, such as the Drymnin whisky distillery on the Morvern Peninsula.’
The hotel is one of the West Highland’s most iconic stopping off points and is well renowned with climbers and hillwalkers.
‘The de Spoelberch family recognised the hotel needs money and care and should be a place for people who enjoy sport and the outdoors. They consider this project as an impact investment, which is close to them and the things they love, whilst ensuring the proposal is economically viable.' Mr Allan continued.
‘They have always been adamant that they didn’t want to do anything that would displease the community and would not have proceeded with something that was not supported.’
Construction work is due to start on the hotel as soon as possible with a projected completion for the beginning of 2019.