Today’s news in brief – 20/2/24
Greenstar Serviced Apartments, situated in the heart of Dundee City Centre next to Abertay University, is up for sale for £850,000. The property boasts six apartments with a total of 11 bedrooms, accommodating up to 34 guests. Each apartment is equipped with eco-friendly HHR SMART heaters and developed to a high standard. With commercial planning consent (Class 7), the apartments present a low-maintenance investment opportunity, appealing to both standalone investors and portfolio expansions. The current owners, having traded the business since pre-COVID times, aim to pursue alternative ventures.
Opening this autumn ahead of the 153rd Open Championship, Dunluce Lodge, Northern Ireland’s latest £16.5m five-star hospitality venue, will be operated by Valor Hospitality. Located near Royal Portrush Golf Club, the lodge will feature 35 luxury suites, private dining spaces, and a fireside lounge, employing over 80 locals. The venue offers a putting green, private transfers, a restaurant overlooking the golf course and ocean, and a spa with fitness facilities. Operated by Valor Hospitality Partners in collaboration with Links Collection, Dunluce Lodge aims to set a new standard for luxury hospitality on the Causeway Coast.
The Inn Collection Group is investing millions to refurbish The Swallow Falls Inn, now renamed from the former Swallow Falls Hotel, situated in Eryri National Park. The project includes creating a new pub, restaurant, and camping provision while integrating the former Youth Hostel Association building into the inn. Manchester-based Bridgewater Group is the main contractor for the refurbishment, expected to be completed by late 2024. Upon completion, the inn is anticipated to create 38 full-time jobs and support the local economy.
The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities is implementing plans for a mandatory national short-term let register to address concerns about the “hollowing out” of communities and antisocial behaviour. Under the new proposals, planning permission will be required for short-term lets, with a cap of 90 nights per year for homeowners renting out their main home. The government aims to ensure high standards of health, safety, and accessibility in short-term lets, aligning them with the established accommodation sector.
