Aberdeenshire hospitality sector split over issue of opening

A Stonehaven hotel has insisted it is not linked to the Covid-19 cluster that has shut down Aberdeen’s licensed trade.

NHS Grampian yesterday published a list of venues known to have had potential contacts with positive coronavirus cases, which included the Marine Hotel in Stonehaven.

But in a social media post, the team insisted that it was an “error” and were seeking an immediate clarification for customers – warning it could have a “devastating” impact on business.

NHS Grampian, however, insisted the information was correct.

Meanwhile, other pubs and restaurants across Aberdeenshire are also steeling themselves for the impact of the restrictions being reimposed.

Some venues have already shut, fearing the five-mile travel ban could be flouted by diners heading to the outskirts of the city.

Linda and Grant Wright, owners of the Newmachar Hotel, closed their doors last night.

Mrs Wright said: “We have fantastic local support and I would have loved to be able to look after them as normal, but if people start drifting out here from the city it would affect everyone here.”

Yvonne Beresford, owner of the Newton Arms in Newtonhill, made the same decision. She told customers: “The welfare of our staff and the local community is way more important than a few pints or a few glasses of wine.”

Others are biding their time and say they will remain open so long as Scottish Government guidance allows.

Susan Knowles, owner of the Waterfront Cafe Bar in Stonehaven, said their outdoor area had been proving popular, adding: “I’ve only had the place four years, and four months of lockdown has been really hard.

“I am worried that people will come from town to Stonehaven, but as long as the government says I can trade I will stay open.”

Nick Quinn, owner of the Garlogie Inn, in Westhill, said Ms Sturgeon’s announcement had resulted in a flurry of bookings which would be sensibly managed. “I would never want to profit on the back of other places having to shut down,” he said.

“Regardless of what is happening in Aberdeen, I will continue to run my business the way I have been during this period – slowly and taking baby steps with each announcement.”

Gary Cox, who owns Edward’s Bar in Inverurie, is planning to review his opening hours on a daily basis.