The video will start in 8 Cancel

Get the stories that matter to you sent straight to your inbox with our daily newsletter. Subscribe Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

Demolition work has started on a controversial £10million revamp of Scotland’s oldest hotel.

Diggers have moved in to begin dismantling parts of the historic Kings House Hotel on Rannoch Moor, near Glen Coe.

The 17th-century inn was once commandeered by government troops at the Battle of Culloden in 1746.

(Image: Barbara R Jones)

Soldiers led by the Duke of Cumberland were billeted there as they crushed the Jacobite rebellion in the Highlands.

The hotel has been a popular stop-off for walkers doing the West Highland Way. Owners Black Corries Estate have suffered a backlash to their plans to renovate the site and add a three-storey, 60-room extension to the 22 currently available.

Photographer Barbara Jones said: “Seeing the demolition work starting was a sad sight. I don’t know how this has been allowed to happen.

“You’d think Scotland’s oldest hotel would be listed and afforded some protection. It should have been preserved because it has such a rich history.

“They are apparently keeping part of the old building but it’s a very small part.”

Planning permission for a modest two-storey extension that involved demolishing 60s extensions was granted last year by Highland Council. But the owners then lodged plans for a three-storey scheme with 60 rooms and are awaiting approval. Developers hope to create 40 jobs.

Conservation charity the John Muir Trust and The National Trust for Scotland have objected to the development.

Property consultants Bidwells are managing the project. Marketing boss Katrina Candy said: “It’s not true to say we’re demolishing the old hotel because what’s being pulled down is a 60s extension. We’re replacing a part of the building that wasn’t fit for purpose.

“The historic building will be retained.”