Craigmonie Hotel in Inverness will close to the general public from Monday (September 5) so that it can house Ukrainian refugees
An Inverness hotel is set to close to customers and it will house Ukrainian refugees instead, it has been revealed.
However it is not yet known how many refugees will move into the Craigmonie Hotel in Annfield Road in the city.
The hotel has 40 rooms and no other guests will stay at the hotel while the agreement is in place.
It is understood that the arrangement will start on Monday (September 5) and it is expected it will run until at least the end of March next year.
There have been complaints from customers who had bookings cancelled at short notice – but hotel staff have been trying to find different hotel accommodation for prospective guests.
The government scheme to welcome refugees has been welcomed by Compass Hospitality, which owns the Craigmonie Hotel, according to general manager Niall MacLennan.
He said: “These people have been through a hell of a time. If we can offer them some sanctuary, I think we should.”
Staff have been reassured that no jobs will be affected by the move – all staff will be kept on no hours reduced.
The Department of Work and Pensions, along with the UK and Scottish Governments and Highland Council, will work closely with staff once the refugees arrive.
Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February an estimated 9000 Ukrainian refugees have fled to Scotland.
