The new owner of the historic Grand Western Lodge, Ian Gillings is onsite, overseeing the clearing out and refurbishing of the premises.

The first stage will ensure the large premises is clean, safe, fireproof, and habitable.

With a projected opening in September or October, the initial target market will be those discerning and mature workers who require boarding-house accommodation which is catered, quiet and conveniently located within both the village and the district.

Ian Gillings' wide experience as a project manager, handling large developments, means that the Lodge is in good hands.

Further along, after the first stage has proved viable, the intention is to gradually restore the Lodge to a degree of its former architectural glory while keeping the focus on hostel-style accommodation.