Imagine owning a piece of history, a charming hotel built in 1901, only to face endless hurdles that leave you questioning its future. That’s exactly what’s happening with the Stromness Hotel, now up for sale after its owner, Na’ím Paymán, cited frustration over stalled refurbishment plans. But here’s where it gets controversial: Paymán’s tenure hasn’t been without drama, from his decision to ban alcohol sales to allegations of unpaid contractors—claims he vehemently denies. Could these controversies be overshadowing his vision for the hotel’s revival? Let’s dive in.
Paymán, who acquired the 42-bed hotel in 2021 as part of his Payman Club chain, has listed it for £1.25 million. The property boasts a net annual turnover of £522,979 and a gross profit of £427,447, according to its listing. Yet, despite its potential, the hotel’s future hangs in the balance due to what Paymán describes as a lack of clarity from local authorities. ‘We’ve been seeking pre-planning advice for a year and a half,’ he told The Orcadian, ‘but without a response, our refurbishment plans are at a standstill.’ And this is the part most people miss: Paymán isn’t just selling—he’s hoping to find a buyer committed to keeping the hotel open to the community, rather than converting it into apartments.
The decision to sell comes after months of challenges. Paymán faced criticism for his alcohol-free policy, a move that divided locals and visitors alike. Then, in October, he addressed accusations of unpaid contractors involved in installing fire stairs, which allowed the hotel to reopen after a forced closure by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. ‘Those claims are unfounded,’ he asserted, though the controversy lingered.
Despite the setbacks, Paymán remains optimistic about the hotel’s future—at least for now. ‘We’re still operating as usual, and bookings for the summer are looking promising,’ he said. But the question remains: Will the Stromness Hotel find a buyer who shares his vision, or will it face an uncertain fate? The Orcadian has reached out to Orkney Islands Council for comment, but the silence from officials only adds to the intrigue.
Here’s the bold question for you: Is Paymán’s struggle a symptom of bureaucratic red tape, or are his decisions to blame for the hotel’s rocky journey? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this debate is far from over.
