Mid Argyll projects to get development funds
SIX PROJECTS across Lochgilphead, Ardrishaig and Tarbert are to share £3 million from a special council fund.
Tarbert and Lochgilphead Regeneration Fund aims to regenerate the area, boosting the local economy and creating jobs.
At last week’s meeting of Argyll and Bute Council’s policy and resources committee, members agreed a final list of projects – proposed by the local community through the Crinan Canal charrette, Mid Argyll Initiative and community action plans – should be pursued, subject to full business case approval and further feasibility studies.
Improvements to the Front Green in Lochgilphead would be allocated £1.42 million from the fund and include new surfacing and seating, landscaping, replacement of children’s play equipment and consideration of flood protection measures, making it a more attractive and usable public space for the local community and visitors.
The re-development, in association with Scottish Canals, of the former Gleaner oil depot in Ardrishaig has been allocated £500,000. The first phase would focus on the refurbishment of the Egg Shed building, to be used for a range of businesses including food and drink, crafts or artist workshops. The second phase could include housing and business space.
Improvements to visibility and safety at the Barmore Road and Garvel Road junction in Tarbert would cost £410,000, allowing the possibility of a new development to be accessed from this junction. Members also agreed £230,000 should be contributed to help make improvements to Tarbert harbour, working with Tarbert Harbour Authority to deliver new offices, additional car parking and toilets and enhanced services for users. The sum of £110,000 will be used to fund pavement improvements in Argyll Street, Lochgilphead, between Colchester Square and the junction with Lorne Street and Union Street.
An allocation of £330,000 is proposed to make improvements to the public realm in Ardrishaig, between the North and Public Hall and the boatyard. Landscaping to the garden and shoreline areas as well as the shops and offices facing Chalmers Street would also benefit.
Council leader Aileen Morton said: ‘The council set up the regeneration fund to boost the economy of Mid Argyll through a number of projects that matter to the local community. These initiatives should make a real difference to the area, creating opportunities for businesses, residents and visitors.
‘This major investment by the council is all about driving forward the economy of Mid Argyll for the benefit of local communities now and into the future.’
The final list of six projects is the result of extensive discussions with the local community and followed a two-stage assessment of an original list of 42 projects.