Forfar hotelier says smaller operators should not be ‘ignored’

A Forfar hotelier has defended the town’s existing hotels in the wake of calls for more facilities.

Dave Clark, co-owner of the Chapelbank Hotel on East High Street, has spoken up after a local councillor said the town was in need of more accommodation.

Last week, Councillor Colin Brown called for something to be done about the former Royal Hotel and added: ”There’s absolutely no accommodation in Forfar, other than the three rooms at the Queens and the four or five in private bed and breakfasts in people’s homes.”

Mr Clark said: ”Mr Brown has got the facts wrong. He’s saying there’s absolutely no accommodation, but there is quality accommodation in Forfar.

”There are two hotels in Forfar the Queen’s and the Chapelbank. They’re both on the High Street and they offer a total of 14 quality rooms. The Zoar Inn also offers four rooms, newly refurbished.

”It’s hard enough to survive in business in today’s economic climate without getting ignored.”

Mr Brown replied: ”When I made my comment I was thinking more about the renovation of the Royal Hotel. I didn’t intend to exclude Chapelbank or any other hotel.

”I’m just hoping we have managed to now clarify the matter.”