£1.8m boost for ultimate destination

PLANS to revitalise one of Scotland's most famous tourist destinations has received a £1.8 million funding boost.

The money from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) will help towards the 6m proposals for John o' Groats by Heritage GB, which also owns Land's End, and luxury short-break specialist Natural Retreats.

The first phase will redevelop and extend the derelict John o' Groats House Hotel, which was bought by Heritage GB in 1996 but has been closed for a decade.

In addition, a development of luxury self-catering lodges will be created.

Carol Gunn, head of transformational projects at HIE, said: "Our vision for John o' Groats is to deliver a vibrant social and business community, which has a design to reflect the natural beauty of the location, and which will release economic potential for the whole area.

"People will visit and stay longer to enjoy what Caithness and Sutherland - and indeed the North Highlands - have to offer."

Natural Retreats director Ewan Kearney said: "We look forward to commencing development and establishing John o' Groats as a high-quality tourist destination."