Proposals for the £40 million project were first unveiled in 2015 but objections and negotiations over developer contributions have stalled its progress.

Developer Carlton Rock then proposed scrapping the plan altogether in favour of a new hospital and retirement village.

Now, according to The Press and Journal, the developer contributions have been resolved and the hotel development has been granted permission in principle by council planning officials.

Detailed plans will now be brought forward for council and community scrutiny, with developers hoping to create a 200 bed hotel, spa, swimming pool, function and conference facilities, restaurants and a horse riding centre.

Carlton Rock director Alan Massie said: “The market has been very hard going but businesses are still looking to invest and I think confidence is returning.

“We look forward to working with the public and local community when we present our detailed plans.”