Ramsey landmark to close next month

The Grand Island Hotel in Ramsey is to close earlier than expected, shutting its doors for the final time next month.

The 18 employees have been told they will remain in post until February 9.

The early closure is being blamed on increasing costs and poor trade.

Approval in principle has been given for a scheme which would see 68 apartments built in place of the Grand Island, but with the stipulation it can't be demolished until a new hotel is up and running on nearby Mooragh promenade.

Managing Director of the company which runs the Grand Island, Richard Grime, was today unable to confirm whether the apartment scheme would now be progressed (play attached audio file):

(Picture: The Grand Island Hotel, from manxscenes.com).