1/5/2008Does Millport need a big new hotel?
The George Hotel Millport
Summer is coming and so are the tourists. But it's not only the weather that is heating up. Debate about guest accommodation in Millport - or the lack of it - has flared up again.
Local MSP Kenny Gibson has even suggested that a large hotel could be the answer. "We'll have to look at new developments to help boost the island economy."
On the other hand some say the focus should first be on redeveloping the rundown pier and installing urgently needed pontoons. This is certainly the view of Alan Crossan, owner of the George Hotel. The second phase of the renovation work currently being done at the George, focused on providing much improved accommodation, will be completed before the end of June.
Alan says he isn't necessarily against the idea of another hotel on Cumbrae, but it will have to be a destination hotel. "The island also has a nice pub culture, but another thing that is lacking at the moment is good food. That's why we're bringing in a chef from Canada soon."
Margaret Kennedy, manager of the George, feels we should first try to optimally use the property that is already here. "We need to preserve the character of the island."
What do you think Millport needs most urgently? And where do you stand on the issue of big developments vs. preserving the current character of the island?- I think the Island definitely requires children's entertainment to bring tourists, one of the things sadly missed for those sunny days is the paddling pool at the Garrison. Does anyone else agree with this? What happened to those bonny baby/ glamorous granny competitions? They were always good for a laugh. This is just a few ideas for starters. Thank you
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The island does need more entertainment - in particular events that can be hosted indoors if the weather is bad.
This picture proves what Mary said about competitions being popular and good for a laugh.
Does anyone know who "Mandy" was?
The Miss Millport competition in this picture was held in 1963, the name Mandy was used because of the Mandy Rice Davies scandal.
MIss MIllport 1963
- All these great old competitions, events etc. were all organised by volunteers from the community like Harry Garden. For a few years a Beach Leader was paid for by the Town Council to organise events for children. Unfortunately with Health & Safety restrictions, Disclosure, NAC etc this is much more difficult for volunteers to do. Perhaps this is something that CCDC in conjunction with the Tourist Association could fund /organise?
- Thankfully I don't remember Mandy although I do remember a guy who looked like her! The old competitions were a great idea but unfortunately Millport is no longer a tourist resort but is more of a tourist destination - a great day out but how much holiday accomodation is there and how much is it needed? A big hotel is another argument - any of the touring coach companies would love a hotel which could cater for them - 60 beds, dinner, entertainment, bed and breakfast. The romance and security of an island is a big attraction. The Garrison is done and is looking good BUT what if Peter de Savary had taken it over and made it into a very expensive 5 star hotel? Unfortunately he visited on a wet Wednesday afternoon in the winter when Millport was shut.
- I agree with Sandy a big hotel would attract visitors - custom built with small pool. Also give the locals somewhere to hold weddings etc. How bout the Cathedral ground think any hotel chains would be interested. Yes we have a pub culture but we need to encourage families back with children but sadly there is nothing for them to do and if eating out anywhere with licence - sorry the kids are kicked out at 8.
- I have been going to Millport for roughly 10 years along with all my family and their kids from babies to teenagers and the thing they would like to see the most is an indoor swimming pool or sport facilities that can be used all year round. When the weather is bad the only place they end up is the amusements. You know when you go to Millport your not guaranteed great weather but there doesnt seem to be anywhere for families to go all together when the weather is bad. We love going to millport but its not a cheaper option than going abroad.