Coigach planning application to transform the Summer Isles Hotel in Achiltibuie is approved by Highland Council
A Coigach hotel will be restored to its original appearance after plans to demolish several more modern extensions and renovate it were given the green light.
Applicant Summer isles Enterprises has secured permission for the work on the Summer Isles Hotel, which sits in Achiltibuie and looks out to sea to the archipelago from which it gets its name.
Under the plans the various extensions will be removed/upgraded to restore the original fabric of the building.
Changes will include the removal of the existing store/cellar extensions on the rear of the hotel, as well as the toilet and bar extensions on the east side and the dining room extension on the west side.
The company will then erect a new ground-floor extension on the rear as well as a small plant room.
Walls will also be stripped and repointed with lime mortar.
Once renovations are complete the building will feature a dining room, lounge bar, kitchen, toilets, store and office facilities on the ground floor. The first floor will feature three en-suite bedrooms, and two en-suite bunk rooms.
A design statement lodged with the application by agents for Summer Isles Enterprise, which also owns the island of Tanera Mor, said: “The restoration and redevelopment work will carry on the already successful undertaking that the applicant has done on the isle of Tanera Mor.
“Work undertaken on the properties and infrastructure on Tanera have not only enhanced the existing structures on site but also the environment in which they are sited.
“The underlying ethos of the applicant is a profound respect for the Highland and Island’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
“Work will be carried out to the highest standard, and wherever possible will use local expertise, labour and materials to add additional value to the existing community on the mainland.”
Granting permission under delegated powers, Highland Council planning officers said: “Since the proposal is to alter an existing facility and not to provide a new facility, the impact on the local community of Achiltibuie will be small.
“The renovation should, however, encourage the use of the hotel and provide an attractive facility both for visitors and the local community.”
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