The Three Chimneys aims to enhance its facilities and create 12 new jobs in Skye.
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In a significant move for the hospitality sector on the Isle of Skye, The Three Chimneys, an award-winning restaurant, has announced plans for a major expansion that promises to create 12 new jobs. Located approximately four miles from Dunvegan, this renowned eatery is set to enhance its restaurant, accommodation, and parking facilities, marking a new chapter in its commitment to providing exceptional service and experiences.
Details of the expansion project
The expansion plans, submitted by Scott Hobbs Planning (SBP) to the Highland Council, include an increase in the restaurant’s size to 137 square meters and an expansion of the tourist accommodation to a total of 20 rooms.
This development is expected to significantly boost local employment, with the number of hotel staff increasing from seven to 13 and restaurant staff from 14 to 20. The proposal emphasizes high-quality design that aligns with the traditional Skye vernacular, ensuring that the new structures will blend seamlessly into the picturesque landscape.
Commitment to sustainability and local community
One of the standout features of this expansion is the commitment to sustainability. The design incorporates renewable materials and high insulation standards to minimize energy consumption. The proposed exterior finishes utilize a simple palette of materials that reflect the rural island setting, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to environmental stewardship. The Wee Hotel Company, which owns The Three Chimneys, has established a “Green Team” dedicated to supporting the local community and reducing the carbon footprint of the hotel and its staff.
Enhancing visitor experience with improved facilities
In addition to the restaurant and accommodation enhancements, the expansion will also improve parking facilities, adding three car parks with a total of 38 spaces for cars and bikes, including provisions for electric vehicle charging and accessible spaces. The project will involve the demolition of an existing property, Heatherlea, currently used for staff accommodation, which will be replaced with two self-contained tourist “bothies.” Furthermore, eight accommodation units across two buildings will be constructed in a neighboring field and woodland, along with four additional tourist “bothies” situated further up the hill.
As the planning application progresses, considerations will be made regarding the views to and from the nearby Croft Museum, a derelict Category B building. The proposal will also address the challenges of expanding within a designated Special Landscape Area, which encompasses much of north-west Skye. The Three Chimneys’ expansion not only aims to enhance its offerings but also to contribute positively to the local economy and environment, reinforcing its status as a key player in Skye’s vibrant hospitality scene.
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