NEWS
DUNNOTTAR CASTLE OWNERS REFUTE CLAIMS IT IS PART OF PARADORES PLAN A SNP plan to create high-end holiday accommodation in historic settings, along the lines of the Paradores Nacionales in Spain, which is a collection of 95-historic state-run properties, was discussed at the recent party conference. The Scottish ‘Paradores plan’ is part of a wider £12 billion strategy to boost the rural economy in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. However, ahead of the conference there were press reports that Dunnottar Castle in Aberdeenshire was being mooted as a possible candidate, but the owners promptly issued a statement putting their position straight, “Contrary to some recent media reports there are no plans to convert the Castle into a high-end hotel in the style of Spain’s paradores. As I am sure you will agree, its status as a Scheduled Ancient Monument, not to mention the substantial conversion costs, might prove to be stumbling blocks. “Whilst any proposals that are designed to increase inward investment are to be applauded, the majesty and history of the existing managed ruins at Dunnottar already draw large numbers to the North East with the Castle welcoming more than 140,000 visitors last year. “We remain fully committed to continuing the Castle’s operation as a key visitor attraction, one that’s enjoyed by many local people as well as tourists from around the world.”
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COVER STORY
NEW BOSS AT MACDONALD HOTELS
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acdonald Hotels & Resorts announced the appointment of Tara O’Neill as Chief Executive Officer earlier this month. She assumes responsibility for the group’s 30 luxury hotels and five holiday resorts in Britain, as well as four resorts in Spain. A qualified chartered accountant, Mrs O’Neill worked in professional practice in both Ireland and the UK with Arthur Andersen and KPMG before moving into the hospitality sector, with senior roles at Luminar Leisure PLC and the Jamie Oliver Group. She joins following the retirement of Group Managing Director Gordon Fraser. He revealed his plan to retire at the sart of the year, however remained in position to guide the business through the challenges presented by the Covid-19 pandemic and to secure an additional Covid-19 finance facility with Lloyd’s Banking Group. Mr Fraser will work alongside Mrs O’Neill for several months to ensure a smooth handover, whilst retaining his board position as Group Deputy Chairman. Company founder Donald Macdonald said, “This is a pivotal appointment at an extremely important time for the group. I am very confident that, in Tara, we have recruited someone who can provide the necessary leadership and ambition to help us build upon the very solid foundations which Gordon has helped to create over many years. “During the recruitment process, Tara impressed everyone involved with her vision for the group, and her track record gives us real confidence that the business will continue to
prosper and grow, despite the obvious current challenges which Covid-19 has brought to our industry.” Tara comments, “The enormous impact of Covid-19 on the hospitality sector underlines the challenges which face us in the months and years ahead, but I believe the Macdonald portfolio of assets represents a unique and exciting opportunity to capitalise on the changing face of the hospitality sector and the evolving needs of our customers. “I look forward to working with the wider board in securing the long-term stability of the business to ensure that we strengthen our position as one of the country’s leading hospitality groups. A key element of that strategy will be to provide a platform that will enable the many talented people working within the business as well as our suppliers and other partners to satisfy their own ambitions and thrive.” Mr Macdonald added“This is a very significant moment for our business, not only because we have appointed Tara to lead the business in the years ahead, but as it also marks the end of a hugely successful era under Gordon’s leadership. “He has been one of the most influential figures in our company for almost three decades and his integrity, drive and judgement have been absolutely central to the achievements of the entire group. I have been fortunate to have him at my side for so many years, and even more fortunate to have his ongoing friendship. “I am very pleased that Tara will have access to Gordon in the months ahead to facilitate a smooth exchange of knowledge about the business and that Gordon will thereafter assume a formal role as Non-Executive Deputy Chairman.”
