A far north village, which was once given an award for being the most dismal place in Scotland, is now in line for a multimillion-pound revamp.
Upmarket tourism operator Natural Retreats hopes to turn John O’Groats into a bustling visitor centre.
Their blueprint for the village has now won planning permission from Highland Council, despite opposition from local residents, who fear that there will be a loss of parking.
However Natural Retreats say that parking will be increased by nearly a quarter under their proposals, which include plans to create a redesigned “end of the road” feature and improved paths, as well as a coach drop-off area and disabled parking. A market square-style car parkcould be created with new buildings erected around it.
The company is now working on detailed plans but could start building by the end of next year.
John O’Groats has been much maligned in the past but is now undergoing somewhat of a renaissance.
In 2010, the village won the Carbuncle Award, with judges citing its reliance on “tourist tat”.
Natural Retreats took over the derelict John O’Groats House Hotel in 2011, turning it into self-catering apartments and creating chalets on a nearby site.
And earlier this year, permission was granted for a new sculpture at the site, inspired by the strong currents of the Pentland Firth.
Ewan Kearney, chief operating officer of Natural Retreats, said: “We warmly welcome the Highland Council’s decision.
“We believe that this is the next step in securinga very positive futurefor this stunningly picturesque natural wilderness.
“We look forward to working with our partners, Heritage GB and Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), to deliver the next phase in John O’Groats’ regeneration.”
Councillor Bill Fernie said: “This is a big investment into John O’Groats and a big investment for Caithness.
“Natural Retreats has the marketing muscle topromote the area as a destination to visit and the stay.
“That will make the difference with these plans.”