RUMOURS ARE rife that Scotland’s first six-star hotel could be the subject of interest from a multi- million-pound Middle Eastern consortium.

The company behind the Taymouth Castle development remained tight-lipped yesterday, but it is understood interested parties are to meet on Tuesday.

The estate near Kenmore is undergoing a £75 million transformation.

The 19th century landmark is owned by Taymouth Group Ltd and its redevelopment of the crumbling building has focused world attention on the picturesque area.

Major works have already been carried out on the building, including 300 windows repaired or restored, replacement of the roof and re-pointing of the stone work.

The castle itself is being renovated and turned into a six-star luxury resort, while the grounds will house over 50 lodges, a riding centre and a health spa.

River and loch fishing will be among the outdoor pursuits to be offered, while the celebrated golf course is also being redeveloped in a bid to create one of Europe’s finest.

The 18-hole course was designed by James Braid in 1930 and has remained in use while Taymouth Castle itself deteriorated.

Born near Elie in Fife, Braid is one of Scotland’s most internationally renowned course architects and he designed, reconstructed or advised at more than 250 golf courses in the British Isles, including Taymouth and Gleneagles’ King’s and Queen’s courses.

While locals have been concerned that little visible work is going on at the castle, the developers have stressed that the conversion remains on schedule.

They are now in discussions with hotel operators and interested parties, though no timetable for completion has been set.

A spokesman for PR firm Turley Associates, on behalf of Taymouth Group Ltd, yesterday said he was “unaware” of any new developments, adding that he had nothing further to say until after Tuesday’s meeting.