Seaforth in Ullapool gets Highland Council go-ahead for house of multiple occupancy bid for Morefield Motel
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PLANS to change the Morefield Motel in Ullapool to a house of multiple occupancy have been approved by Highland Council.
The motel was bought earlier this year by the J&R Group, owners of the port's Seaforth bar and restaurant, and is to be used as accommodation for staff.
The firm made the acquisition after being faced with the prospect of not being able to fully open the Seaforth because accommodation could not be found for workers due to the acute lack ofaffordable homes in the area.
The motel, located on Morefield Lane, is specifically for staff, with plans being developed to extend further on the site.
One local resident objected to the planning application lodged with Highland Council, citing concern about possible excessive noise from occupants when using the conservatory area.
She told planners: "With this being used for staff from Seaforth restaurant, who are likely to be working late hours throughout the day and evening, I do not want to be kept awake when they get home to unwind!"
In a decision notice issued this week, Highland Council granted permission for the change of use subject to a number of conditions.
Before the building is occupied, the cycle parking and access arrangements – including associated paths and bollards detailed on approved plans – have to be completed in full and made available for use.
In addition, the external finish materials used in the development must match those of the original building.
Any construction work associated with the property – including the loading/unloading of delivery vehicles, plant or other machinery, for which noise is audible at the boundary of the application site – should not take place outwith the hours of 8am and 7pm Monday to Friday; 8am and 1pm on Saturdays; or at any time on a Sunday or bank holiday.
Work falling outwith these hours which gives rise to amenity concerns, or noise at any time which exceeds acceptable levels, may result in the service of a notice under Section 60 of the Control of Pollution Act 1974.
The Highland housing shortage, allied with fewer EU workers following Brexit, has placed severe staffing pressures on hospitality and tourism providers in the region.
The decision notice can be read here.
