STORNOWAY’S historic Caledonian Hotel is to be brought back into use for the first time in more than a decade, as part of SSEN Transmission‘s Lewis Hub project.
The building, which overlooks the town’s harbour, will undergo a major refurbishment project to provide accommodation for principal contractor, RJ McLeod, during the hub’s construction.
The initial phase of refurbishment is scheduled to begin in spring 2026, with work on the hub due to begin in summer 2027. The approach will look to enable essential investment in the building’s fabric while ensuring the project remains commercially sustainable beyond the refurbishment period.
SSEN Transmission has been a ‘significant’ investment in the refurbishment, with the hotel expected to reopen to the public once the Lewis Hub project is complete. Owned by the Macarthur family, its long-term vision is for the Caledonian Hotel to return to being fully operational for years to come.
Speaking on behalf of the Macarthur family, David Macarthur, said, “After more than a decade of closure, the Caledonian Hotel’s absence has been keenly felt on the town’s waterfront. Like many long-vacant buildings, its closure has had a visible impact on the character and vitality of the town centre.
“Restoring a large, historic island hotel – especially one that has stood unused for so long – posed major commercial and operational challenges, and now the support from SSEN Transmission and its contractor RJ McLeod has created a pathway for the building to be brought back into active use.
“We are delighted this project is now coming to fruition. Built on a long‑standing commitment to quality, sustainability and local employment, we expect this development to make a positive contribution to the town and wider community.”
Callum Wardrop, SSEN Transmission’s project director for the Lewis Hub, added, “We are committed to creating a positive legacy through the construction of the Lewis Hub, and our investment that enables the refurbishment of the Caledonian Hotel is a clear demonstration of that ambition.
“Not only will this provide accommodation for personnel involved in the construction of the Lewis Hub, it will also bring the hotel back into long-term use – reflecting our dedication to sustainable solutions that ease pressure on Stornoway’s housing and tourism markets while delivering a valuable community asset.
“Alongside our support for delivering close to 100 new homes at Branahuie, funding for the Arnish Road upgrade, and backing for the expansion of Macaulay College, this is yet another tangible example of how the Lewis Hub and Western Isles HVDC Link are delivering significant benefits for Lewis – reflecting our ambition to promote local economic and social growth.”
