Opul House decision "does not mean the property has no future"

Management issues statement as customers told hotel will close

The owners of Opul House in Douglas say the decision to close the hotel doesn't mean the property itself has no future.

This week, Opul told customers the site on Central Promenade will have to close on 7 December following discussions with the fire service and environmental health.

Opul says the significant costs associated with the proposed refurbishment and retrofit works for the property could not be justified against the anticipated commercial return or the long-term financial viability of the existing operation. 

Closure, therefore, is the most commercially responsible course of action.

In a statement to Manx Radio, Opul says: "The decision to close the Hotel has been made by management following a detailed commercial assessment of the business's future operating requirements.

"The assessment concluded that the significant costs associated with the proposed refurbishment and retrofit works could not be justified against the anticipated commercial return or the long-term financial viability of the existing operation. As a result, management has taken the decision that closure is the most commercially responsible course of action.

"This is an independent commercial decision and should not be interpreted as the Hotel being forced to close or as a result of any external intervention or requirement.

"Importantly, the decision does not mean that the property has no future. Management remains committed to considering opportunities for the property's further development and investment. We would also like to reassure that all existing staff remain in employment with Opul. The closure decision does not mean that our people are being displaced from the wider business.

"Management's priority is to communicate the decision transparently and directly with affected paying guests, ensuring that appropriate arrangements are made and that guests are treated fairly and professionally throughout the process."