55 new jobs for Donegal as fire-sale hotel re-opens
Shandon Hotel and Spa located in Dunfanaghy Co. Donegal re-opened last night with the creation of 55 new jobs, a year after the hotel was bought by London-based local businessman Warren McCarthy for just €810,000, at a fire-sale auction.
The hotel closed its doors in 2011 after going into receivership. During the boom the landmark premises overlooking Marble Hill Beach had been valued at more than €6m.
Mr. McCarthy has spent the last year refurbishing the hotel, said manager Carolynne Harrison.
“The entire hotel has been upgraded to a luxury new four-star facility,” said Ms Harrison.
“We opened the Spa last autumn as part of the first phase and the Canadian hot-tub overlooking the beach has been very popular.
“The whole new design focuses on Sheephaven Bay so every room has a view of the sea and the Wild Atlantic Way.
“It’s a real shot in the arm to the local economy as well with 55 new members of staff.”
She added: “We began selling rooms online just a few weeks ago and we have been blown away by the number of bookings we’ve had already.”
Relatives of many new local staff members mingled with tourists at a champagne reception at the hotel last night.
Local TD Pat the Cope Gallagher said the hotel would add enormous benefit to Donegal.
