A detailed planning application for the redevelopment of John o’Groats, submitted by Natural Retreats and Heritage Great Britain in conjunction with renowned Edinburgh-based architects GLM, has been given the go ahead by the Highland Council.

Full planning approval has been granted for the first stage proposal for a multi-million pound revitalization of this famous location, incorporating the alteration and extension of the former John o’Groats Hotel to form luxury self-catering holiday apartments and the development of new detached holiday properties.

This redevelopment will breathe new life into one of Scotland’s best-known, but sadly neglected destinations, with the creation of sustainable, self-catering holiday properties, using environmentally-friendly construction and cutting-edge design, as well as the extension of food and beverage facilities offering high-quality local food produce.

Second-stage proposals include improving the public realm harbour area and creating a multi-use visitor centre. Natural Retreats and Heritage GB are working closely with the Highland Council and Highlands & Islands Enterprise to develop these plans that will help to create an enhanced visitor experience at this leading landmark.


Natural Retreats’ Managing Director Matt Spence said: “Natural Retreats is delighted to receive approval for these exciting plans which will help to revitalise this area and create much needed jobs in the local community. John o’Groats is a world famous destination and being able to play a part in helping to restore it to prominence with the kind of development this location deserves, is something we are incredibly proud to be involved with.

“With the approval of these plans we will now be able to deliver a new vision for John o’Groats and ensure that visitors feel inspired, informed and educated by their experience. In particular we are looking forward to continuing to work with the local community as well as the Highland Council and Highlands & Islands Enterprise to deliver a sympathetic development.”

Chief Executive of Heritage GB, Allan Leech, added: “With both Heritage Great Britain and Natural Retreats’ proven track records in delivering financially sustainable leisure and tourism destinations in the UK, we always felt these plans would be well received and we are delighted the Highland Council has shared in our vision.

“This is the culmination of 12 months of engagement with local stakeholders and confirms our strong belief that close cooperation between private companies and the public sector is not only essential to deliver projects of this nature, but can also prove to be a huge boost to regional tourism, especially in the difficult current economic conditions.”

(GK)