Gleneagles Hotel is closing its doors this Friday (November 13) as a result of Perth and Kinross being moved up to level three of COVID-19 restrictions.
Perth and Kinross Council leader Murray Lyle has described the news as “devastating.”
The 205-bedroomed luxury five star hotel will be closed over Christmas and what the hotel’s managing director said is normally the “highlight” of the year for both staff and guests.
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The hotel will remain closed until February 1, 2021.
The hotel sits within the Strathallan ward, Conservative council leader Murray Lyle represents.
He said: “It’s quite devastating that one of our major employers has had to shut its doors.”
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Cllr Lyle fears the temporary closure will have a knock-on effect on local suppliers who would be supplying the hotel with everything from fresh produce to Christmas trees over the festive period.
The Conservative councillor received a phone call from one of the hotel's suppliers who was "dismayed" at the news.
Cllr Lyle had not been expecting Perth and Kinross to move up to level three.
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He said: "I am disappointed.
"The economic impact on Perth and Kinross is huge. People need to adhere to the guidance so we can get up to level one or two as soon as possible."
From Friday, Perth and Kinross will move up into level three due to a near 33 per cent rise in coronavirus positive cases in the region.
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While the hotel will close its doors until February, the hotel’s world-renowned golf courses and membership facilities - including the Dormy Clubhouse - will remain open subject to government regulations.
Conor O’Leary, Gleneagles’ Managing Director told the Perthshire Advertiser : “Following the Scottish Government’s announcement that Perth and Kinross will be moved up to protection level three in the national coronavirus restriction system, we’ve taken the very difficult decision to temporarily close Gleneagles’ doors for the second time this year – from Friday, November 13 until Sunday, January 31 inclusive.
“Having worked so hard to provide a safe environment across our estate, we are saddened by this development, especially in the lead-up to Christmas – the highlight of our calendar for both team and guests.
“However, we’re committed to taking the additional measures necessary to protect the health and wellbeing of everyone at Gleneagles, and to play our part in minimising COVID-19 cases in the region.
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“The support and well-wishes we’ve received over the past eight months, including our four-month closure period earlier this year, have been truly humbling, and we look forward to welcoming back our hotel guests from February 1, subject to government regulations.
“We extend our sympathy to all the individuals, families and teams around the world who have been affected by this crisis and our gratitude to all the essential workers who continue to work tirelessly to keep everyone safe.”
