A brand new luxury lodge development overlooking Stonehaven Bay has been launched with the formal ground breaking starting a building programme that’s expected to complete during October 2017.
The Dalriada Luxury Lodges development comprises eight self-catering lodges, set above Stonehaven Golf Course and commanding a sweeping sea view across the bay to Dunnottar Castle.
Subscribe to our daily newsletter
Why? Free to subscribe, no paywall, daily business news digest.
Former oil and gas executive, Bob McAlpine, believes he has recognised a gap in the market for five star self-catering accommodation in Aberdeenshire and set out to address it with a new family venture, Dalriada Luxury Lodges.
The company’s vision is to create a high quality complex with state-of-the-art accommodation, impressive eco-credentials and an enviable location.
Mr. McAlpine said: “We think there is demand for very high quality, self-catering accommodation in the north east of Scotland and the family will invest well over £1 million to bring this development to life. Four full time jobs will be created in our company this year and more to follow next year. We will support local suppliers where ever possible and expect to bring visitors and tourists to the area who otherwise may have gone to alternative regions. We have received strong support and encouragement from a range of organisations but particularly Aberdeenshire Council and Visit Scotland.”
Each two bedroom, en-suite lodge will have a comfortable, contemporary layout, designer kitchen, spacious equipment locker, sedum roof and south-facing deck, just minutes away from Stonehaven town centre and perfectly positioned to explore Aberdeen City and Shire.
Alan Buchan Contractors, based at Brathens, near Banchory, aims to have the first phase of an eight-lodge project done by October. It is carrying out the work using kits supplied by Scotframe Timber Engineering, of Inverurie.
The McAlpine’s was joined at the ground breaking event by Stewart Spence of the Marcliffe and Jo Robinson, the Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire & Moray Speyside Regional Director of VisitScotland.
Jo said: “I was thrilled about taking part in the ground-breaking event at what I believe will be a fantastic addition to Aberdeenshire’s luxury self-catering offering. Delivering a quality experience that meets, and exceeds, visitor expectations is crucial in making Aberdeenshire a must-visit, must-return destination.
“Tourism is a key factor in ensuring communities thrive across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, fuelling job opportunities and business growth. It is leading economic transformation in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire through redevelopment and expansion of existing products, innovation and bringing new opportunities to the visitor economy.”
