A Derry hotel has been transferred to a new company, with tributes being paid to its former owners.
Da Vinci’s on the Culmore Road was opened by the Garvan O’Doherty Group in 2001.
It has been taken over by Edmund and Patrick Simpson, hoteliers from Co Donegal who own Belfast’s Lansdowne and Benedicts hotels.
On Facebook, Da Vinci’s said Monday was the opening of a new chapter “as we officially say goodbye to our former owner, the Garvan O’Doherty Group”.
The post said: “The Garvan O’Doherty Group have, over the years, been wonderful custodians of our amazing hotel, and we wish them every success with their future endeavours.”
Da Vinci’s Hotel in Londonderry has changed hands, 23 years after it was founded by Garvan O’Doherty
It added that while the hotel would continue to operate as normal, the kitchen would be running at reduced capacity and is only serving breakfast.
“We’re all incredibly excited here at Da Vinci’s Hotel to work with our new owners and we look forward to welcoming you all to our wonderful hotel as we embark on our new journey of delivering unparalleled hospitality to the people of Derry and beyond.”
People posted messages of support, with one saying: “End of an era, loved every minute working here.”
Another said: “Had many good times under Garvan’s management. Look forward to many under new management.”
Read more
The venue has 64 hotel bedrooms and a number of self-contained apartments. Garvan O’Doherty Group also owns five off-licences in the north west under the Chill brand, as well as other properties in Derry.
The Simpson brothers own Brunswick Moviebowl in Derry, and last year were among a group of businesspeople who acquired Foyle Shopping Centre.
They are directors of a number of limited companies, including hotels firm Elmoreton.
The lobby of Da Vinci’s Hotel in Derry, which is now under new ownership
In accounts filed last September, the company reported revenues of £5.1m for 2022, down from £3.1m in 2021.
Its pre-tax profits were just under £500,000, down from £1.8m, and it had 123 employees.
Two years ago, Mr O’Doherty announced plans for a new whiskey distillery and shop in Derry, along with bars, restaurants and shops, at Foyle Street and Shipquay Place.
A planning application was submitted for the project by David A. Watt & Co. Ltd, a company within the Garvan O’Doherty Group.
Anna Doherty, chief executive of Derry Chamber, said the transfer of Da Vinci’s Hotel to the Simpsons was good news.
“We know that Patrick and Edmund Simpson are very experienced within the hospitality sector and will bring steady hands to the hotel, which is so important to our local offering,” she said.
“The importance of retaining hotel rooms within Derry city cannot be overstated given how many events, festivals, and conferences the city plays host to throughout the year.
“Chamber would also like to wish the Garvan O’Doherty Group well with their future endeavours, as we are sure that they will continue to play a significant role in our local economy for years to come.”