Disused toilet block could soon become a reception area for rich anglers renting a Loch Ness castle

Well-heeled guests staying at a Loch Ness castle near Inverness could soon be entertained in a former toilet block.

Aldourie Castle Ltd has applied for planning permission to refurbish a vacant public toilet at Dochgarroch on the Caledonian Canal to create a "meet and greet" rod room.

The historic mansion in its online description states it is "one of the most beautifully presented private hire properties in Scotland."

It underwent a substantial renovation in recent years "to create a place worthy of luxury holidays and with the requirements of a private house party of today."

The planning and change of use applications to Highland Council from Aldourie Castle Ltd is outlined the plan as being: "The strip out and refurbishment of an existing vacant WC block with change of use to a meet and greet/rod room facility for fishing on the nearby River Ness.

"The proposal includes formation of a parking area and foot paths, reroofing in traditional tin, timber cladding the walls inside and out, reducing and altering the existing drainage, repairing windows, and replacing rain water gutters."

An asbestos report accompanies the application which states a full strip out of any asbestos containing materials will be carried out by licensed professionals.

Inside the narrow building will have a small kitchen and a seating area with table at one end, while at the other end will be built-in benches with storage for boots underneath and rod racks above.

An area where waders and other tackle can be hung will also be installed.

It is understood the original toilet block for eight people was built for a former camp site at Dochgarroch.

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