Lews Castle Trust Steering Group has announced plans to convert Lews Castle in Stornaway on the Scottish island of Lewis into a mixed-use development.

The £7.3m scheme proposes to convert the castle into an 18-bedroom, four-star hotel and a function venue.

It will also provide a new home for an upgraded Museum nan Eilean, which cannot expand at its current town centre location.

Comhairle Council has already approved the proposal in principle, following a 15-month feasibility study carried out by consultants Austin-Smith:Lord and Tourism Resources Company.

The plans are now set for consultation with key stakeholders, potential funder and the local community.

Peter Drummond, Austin-Smith:Lord conservationist architect, said: “Without major work in the next two to five years, repair of the castle is likely to become impractical. The only strong market option is a mixed-use development.”

David Bullough, director of Tourism Resources Company, added that a new hotel is needed owing to the growing market for independent and short leisure breaks in the area. The hotel would be fitted out and operated by an independent operator and managed separately to the museum. Details: www.austinsmithlord.com