Hotel group creates more than 80 jobs following £20m investment

A hotel group has created more than 80 new jobs following a £20m-plus investment in its Highland portfolio.

Black Sheep Hotels also said that since the easing of lockdown restrictions at the end of April, the chain has welcomed more than 1250 guests to its hotels and restaurants.

The group’s portfolio includes The Whispering Pine Lodge on the shores of Loch Lochy in Lochaber, Rokeby Manor in Invergarry, and The Cluanie Inn at Glenmoriston.

Additions to the portfolio include eight cabins and a new spa offering at The Whispering Pine Lodge.

“Buoyed” by the success of its Tiger on the Wall Asian restaurant in Inverness, a “pop-up” restaurant bearing the same name will open in Fort William’s High Street.

A new bakery – the Landour Bakehouse – has also been built opposite The Cluanie Inn on the road to Skye and will serve homemade cakes, pastries and sandwiches from recipes dating back to the 1890s.

Black Sheep Hotels also said it had added 19 bedrooms through the construction of six cabins at The Whispering Pine Lodge and two cabins at the Cluanie Inn.

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Speaking about the programme of investment, Sanjay Narang, owner of Black Sheep Hotels, said: “Everyone at Black Sheep Hotels is optimistic about the season and looking forward to welcoming guests back to the Highlands.

“Whilst there is no doubt that the hospitality industry has been badly hit by the pandemic, I firmly believe that the Highlands offers the perfect destination for people seeking a well-earned break and escape after lockdown.

“We anticipate a surge in demand in tourism, especially from within the UK at the start of the season, and we think that this popularity is set to stay.

“We pride ourselves on offering excellent customer service and luxury accommodation and our £20m investment and expansion of our portfolio reflects both the market opportunities we predict as well as our commitment to the Highland economy and creating sustainable employment.”