A Moray care home is closing down as part of a multimillion-pound revamp of a hotel.
The Abbeyside Care Group has announced that the Whinnybank Residential Home in Lossiemouth will shut due to constraints converting it for modern needs.
No timescale has been set for the closure while the 13 residents at the home are relocated.
Meanwhile, G V Lossie Hotels has submitted plans to Moray Council to convert Whinnybank into bedrooms and a conference room as part of an extension to the neighbouring Skerry Brae Hotel.
Last night, the investment was hailed as a boost for the town before it welcomes an influx of troops as part of the RAF Lossiemouth expansion.
Brian Yeats, managing director of Abbeyside Care Group, explained that the company has investigated maintaining the building, but making the requisite adjustments had proved too difficult.
He said: “We are obviously very disappointed we have had to take the decision, but our sector is in the midst of changes which create enormous challenges.
“Given the physical layout of the whole building, the double rooms and lack of individual en-suite facilities and the staffing levels which would likely have to be increased due to the complexities of the care we are now expected to deliver, this has put the home’s future longevity and financial viability into question.”
Residents will be found alternative accommodation within the care group or elsewhere. All staff will be offered jobs elsewhere in the company, which is planning to invest in its Elgin-based Abbeyvale and Grove care homes.
Businessmen Mohamed Ali and Adam Boyd are planning a £2million refit of the Skerry Brae Hotel as part of plans to include a new health spa with pool and gym and a new function suite.
The makeover is expected to more than double the hotel’s staff complement from 10 to 35 employees.
Proposals have been submitted to convert the care home while forming a link to connect the two buildings.
Mr Ali, who already owns the Firth Hotel, said: “Adam and I are both highly committed to investing in the future of Lossiemouth.
“We’re very excited about this venture and believe that when we have finished our refit, the Skerry Brae will provide the town with a great venue.”
Heldon and Laich councillor John Cowe said: “Investment like this in Lossiemouth is very welcome with everything that is happening with the base expansion.
“There is going to be an influx of people to the town with an increased demand for accommodation from them and also for tourism.
“Unfortunately, it means the residents there at the moment will have to move. I’m sure they will be catered for.”
A spokeswoman for Health and Social Care Moray said: “Members of the social work team will be supporting residents and their relatives to explore their options and identify suitable alternative accommodation.
“We will continue working closely with the Abbeyside Care Group and their staff to ensure the closure of Whinnybank is managed in a sensitive and timely manner to minimise the impact on residents.”