Inverness restaurant owners' hopes dashed by delay over property decision attributed to coronavirus
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A couple are desperate to know if they have been successful in their bid for a much-prized Scottish Canals property near Inverness.
Known as the The Smiddy at Dochgarroch, it was originally meant to be allocated last month, but the decision has been delayed due to coronavirus.
The canal-side unit had a closing date of the end of February, but interested parties still have not heard if they have been successful in gaining the tenancy.
Gaby Monkhouse and her husband Gus Glue, who have applied for the cottage, say that every day there is a delay the fewer options there are for people, like her and her husband, who want to stay in the area.
Ms Monkhouse said: “The tenancy on our current premises at Oakwood is due to come to an end at the end of April. Our landlord gave us that date to come out of the premises some months ago.
“We have a boat, The Highland Lassie, that was due to go into operation this year, but given the current circumstances with coronavirus that is looking less likely.
“In the meantime, a tenancy on the canalside came onto the market.
“As we have operated the Oakwood Restaurant at Dochfour for 18 years and been residents in the area for more than 20 years, it will be the ideal property for us. Firstly, to base our business here and secondly to give us the premises in which to move our office into on April 30.
“Without it, at the end of April our business will be homeless.
“We only want to know what is happening, but no-one seems able to tell us, and Scottish Canals don’t seem to be making any decisions.”
However, Scottish Canals said it was unaware of the need for a quick decision on the property.
Catherine Topley, Scottish Canals chief executive, said: “Scottish Canals, through our property partner are considering commercial offers pertaining to Dochfour Loch. All parties interested have submitted a commercial proposal on the property and in line with the process outlined, the terms of this offer are being evaluated alongside numerous other offers received.
“The evaluation process has unfortunately been delayed due to the current Covid-19 situation, as Scottish Canals have had to divert resources to prioritise operational issues and public and staff safety.
“Our property agent has retained regular contact with all parties interested in the business offer and when it is safe and appropriate to do so, will re-convene the evaluation of submissions.”
