Argyll & Bute will benefit from a £20 million UK Government funding package, alongside local investment, to tackle the housing emergency, boost business growth, and restore key community landmarks.
The investment, part of the UK Government’s Community Regeneration Partnership, was confirmed this week after extensive consultation with local residents. Ministers say the money will deliver homes, jobs, and regeneration across the region.
Opposition Leader, Councillor Peter Wallace said: “This investment is a significant opportunity to tackle Argyll & Bute’s housing emergency and support local businesses. But residents have heard big announcements before, and too often delivery has fallen short. Promises made today must be kept tomorrow.”
Among the flagship projects is the Oban Airport Business Park, which will receive £7.4 million to construct two new buildings as part of its second phase. The development is expected to attract new businesses, create jobs, and strengthen Argyll & Bute’s role in Scotland’s marine and aviation economy.
Another major initiative is the restoration of the former Royal Hotel in Rothesay. The UK Government has pledged £4 million towards the redevelopment, with additional investment from local firm, George Hanson Building Contractor, helping to transform the derelict building into a vibrant community asset. Plans include accessible homes, key worker accommodation, tourist facilities, and commercial space in the heart of the town. The project demonstrates how national and local investment can combine to revitalise communities.
Projects across Argyll & Bute will include new housing developments in Islay and Mull, alongside a programme to acquire properties currently used as holiday lets and return them to permanent residential use. The funding will also support the expansion of facilities at the European Marine Science Site, provide new teaching space at the Scottish Association for Marine Science, improvements to Bowmore Hall, and regeneration work in Dunoon town centre. Together, the initiatives are expected to create jobs, improve housing supply, and strengthen the local economy.
The £20 million allocation for Argyll & Bute follows over 100 hours of community engagement and is part of a wider £2 billion UK Government programme to revitalise rural and island communities.
