HIGHLAND councillors have given their backing for the raising of a compulsory purchase order to acquire the Struan House Hotel in Carrbridge which has lain empty since it closed 15 years ago.
The local authority said the plan is to develop the site into ‘much needed’ affordable housing for the benefit of the local community.
Highland Council councillor Bill Lobban said, “The building which sits in a prominent position is not only an eyesore but is in such sever disrepair that it has become a potential hazard due to damage caused by rain water, break-ins and vandalism. In its hay-day it was at the heart of the village but as each week goes by it steadily deteriorates more and more. The key site deserves to be given a new lease of life, so I am delighted that the meeting today unanimously backed the compulsory purchase order.
“Whilst it may be some time before we see the entire area redeveloped this should give local residents the assurance that before too long, we will see the old Struan Hotel replaced with homes for local families to live in.”
