Debate begins on Travelodge proposal

The tourism and hospitality sector in Oban and Argyll continues to expand, with visitor numbers remaining buoyant.

Many accommodation providers have been reporting year on year that their occupancy rates are as strong as they have ever been.

As we have reported on a number of occasions in recent months, the construction of a new Premier Inn in Oban town centre is continuing.

Now, as we report this week, Travelodge, another chain of budget hotels, wants to build here as well.

As a statement from the company said: ‘Travelodge has identified Oban as an up and coming tourism destination and wants to support the council with particular gaps that have been highlighted in the area.

‘There is a need for good quality and value accommodation which Travelodge will offer with its first hotel to open in Oban.’

The difference between the Travelodge proposal and the Premier Inn development is that the former wants financial involvement from Argyll and Bute Council – with the local authority retaining ownership of the hotel and receiving an annual rent into its revenue budget or selling the hotel with Travelodge as its operator after completion.

There is a debate to be had regarding this proposal and whether it is best use of hard-pressed public finances.

We have no doubt the senior figures in the council will give it serious consideration and we await the outcome with interest.