Town's only hotel faces closedown
EXAMINER IS APPOINTED TO THE GRAND HOTEL
THE FUTURE of the Grand Hotel in Wicklow hangs precariously in the balance after the High Court granted it examinership. The landmark hotel was given at least 35 days to strike a deal with creditors and structure a return to solvency.
Blake Hughes was installed as examiner and now has to get the business in order, otherwise the hotel could face falling into liquidation or receivership. Alternatively, new owners could be sought.
It's the only hotel in Wicklow town and its potential closure would be a blow for the local hospitality and tourism sector.
'It's very unfortunate but hopefully the hotel will be able to trade its way out of difficulties. As well as the guests staying in the hotel, you also have seminars, functions and weddings. It would be a huge loss to the town,' says Mayor Irene Winters.
The Hotel is one of the oldest independently owned properties in Wicklow and has been welcoming guests since 1896. It has 33 guestrooms and a number of function rooms. Silver's Nightclub also operates there.
The last accounts show losses in 2008 of almost €425,000. That was more than three times worse than figures for 2007.
- Myles BUCHANAN
