Harper Macleod Advises On Purchase Of Landmark Tobermory Hotel Business

Leading Scottish commercial law firm Harper Macleod LLP has advised on the purchase of the landmark Western Isles Hotel business in Tobermory, Mull for an undisclosed sum.

The deal involved the purchase of the hotel business by a newly formed partnership, Western Isles Hotel LLP, which has also taken a 3 year lease on the 125 year old hotel building.  At the end of this lease the partnership may exercise a contractual option to purchase the building at a fixed price.   

The imposing three star hotel boasts 28 bedrooms and is located overlooking the entrance to Tobermory harbour.  Harper Macleod provided full service legal advice in the deal, advising on property aspects, incorporating the LLP, licensing, employment and intellectual property.  Andrew Thomson of Kerr Stirling LLP advised Oxford Hotels &Inns Management on the sale of the business. 

Richard Nealon, Partner in the Western Isles Hotel LLP said, "We are thrilled to be at the helm of such an iconic hotel and have plans in place to return it to its former glory.  As experienced hoteliers, our active owner/manager focus will ensure that islanders and visitors alike will be able to take full advantage of our facilities in such a stunning setting.  We are delighted that Harper Macleod assisted in bringing this purchase to completion within our timescale and on budget." 

Douglas Reid, Harper Macleod Associate, who led the legal team said, "Despite the oft-reported credit crunch, it is encouraging that Harper Macleod continues to see a steady flow of high profile transactions.  This was a particularly interesting deal from a legal perspective and this investment by Western Isles Hotel LLP will undoubtedly continue to enhance Mull's hospitality offerings for local businesses, residents and tourists." 

Established in 1988, Harper Macleod has 40 Partners, 115 Fee Earners and a complement of 240 staff.  The firm is renowned for its expertise in Public Sector & Housing, Sports, Recoveries, Corporate, Real Estate, Litigation, Banking and Employment and includes The Scottish Government, The Child Support Agency in Scotland, The Scottish Premier League, Forestry Commission Scotland, Whitbread, William Hill, BP, Airtricity, Optical Express and Tulloch Homes Group in its impressive list of clients.