Plans to renovate and extend the Dores Inn, a pub owned by Scotland's richest man, have been recommended for approval by Highland Council planning officials. The proposals, which include a bakery, cafe and shop, are due to go before the council's south planning applications committee next week, external.
Anders Holch Povlsen and his wife Anne own the Dores Inn as well as the nearby 300-year-old Aldourie Castle and a number of Highland estates. The Povlsens are developing the Dores Inn, in the village of Dores on Loch Ness, through their WildLand landscape conservation project.
The plans also include improving car parking and toilet provision. The pub dates back to about the 1820s and has been proposed for refurbishment and a new extension.
What changes are being proposed?
The pub should be refurbished and given a new extension, with WildLand saying the design would be intended to “repair and enhance” the existing architecture of the building. A small bakery, café and shop also form part of the plans, along with improvements to parking and toilet facilities.
The Dores Inn, left, is on a shore of Loch Ness south of Inverness and is a landmark on the southern shore of the loch. The proposals have been put out for public consultation, and WildLand has proposed that construction be phased so Dores Beach remains open and accessible throughout the work.
How has WildLand described the project?
WildLand said the new building would “repair and enhance” the historic pub and restaurant. The company has said the project follows an incremental approach to looking after a place that is used and valued by many people.
In February, Joe Dunn, WildLand's director of built development, said:
“These proposals reflect a considered and incremental approach to looking after a place that is used and valued by many people.
“The focus has been on understanding the site, listening to feedback, and allowing the landscape and everyday use of the area to guide how change is made.”
Why is the Dores Inn notable?
The Dores Inn pub and restaurant is a landmark on the southern shore of Loch Ness, south of Inverness. It was visited by Queen Elizabeth and her husband Prince Phillip in 1967. Over the years, owners of the Dores Inn have included local community stalwart Ella Macrae.
