A planning application has been lodged with North Ayrshire Council for a new hotel development in Gallowgate Lane, Largs.
As recently reported, local businessman John Corrigan is behind the development which will include a reception area, 14 rooms, and has been aimed at ‘the fast growing budget boutique hotel market’.
The development site is a derelict property which has been partially demolished.
The site initially housed a single storey and room in roof house which was demolished 20 years ago.
In the design brief prepared by McMillan and Cronin architects submitted to planners, it states: “Largs has suffered heavily from the loss of a ‘traditional’ hotel accommodation, where stay, drink and dine, was the blend of offerings. It no longer has a significant level of overnight accommodation available, yet the demand for such is seen as booming in many areas - but through a different type of product offering.
“Budget and boutique hotel accommodation is seen as being a fast growing industry.”
The definition of a boutique hotel is given in the brief as a hotel which ‘distinguishes itself from a hotel chain by giving its guest an ultra-personalised service’, offering guests a ‘unique experience through the aesthetics, atmosphere and service. 
It points out that with travelling trends change and more young people travelling around the globe, it is not uncommon to see such hotels popping up in popular tourism spots.
The proposal involves a full width three story and attic development with a central staircase and lift.
The accommodation will include a mix of wheelchair and general access accommodation with standard and deluxe studios, complete with modest self catering facilities.
In the conclusion, it is pointed out that a need for such a project will reinforce Largs as a ‘destination of choice’ , and fits into the council’s own Development Plan for the area.
The adjoining property is also in the ownership of the applicant, and recently received planning permission to convert the former Largs Business Centre into three flats for rental.
Mr Corrigan added: “It will generate some more town centre accommodation which is badly needed with all the hotels that have closed. We have had various applications for the site over the years but the business market has meant that we have had to alter our thinking on each occasion.
“It was more a case of coming up with adapting a planning application to suit the site, and we think that a hotel development will be it. If you attract people towards staying over then everyone wins from all the pubs to the shops.”