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Six projects in ����Ů�� and Bute are poised to benefit from a share of £496,000 from the Scottish Government’s Place Based Investment (PBI) Programme after councillors agreed to the funding in principle at a meeting of the council’s Policy and Resources Committee.

The selected projects are:

• The Albert Pier, Rothesay – regeneration works to formalise parking arrangements and provide dedicated facilities for visiting coaches. The project represents the next phase of works following the proposed demolition of vacant property on the pier using Crown Estates Funding.
• The Victoria Hall, Campbeltown – repair and refurbish the entire front elevation of this prominent town centre building. This will add value to previous town centre regeneration activities funded via the Conservation Area Regeneration Schemes (CARS).
• Shopfront and business support - flexible fund to support businesses throughout ����Ů�� and Bute with capital improvements to shopfronts/buildings supporting previous regeneration investment.
• Upgrade of CCTV in town centres across ����Ů�� and Bute.
• Helensburgh Outdoor Museum - commission artist/arts organisation to deliver community engagement and to further develop the Outdoor Museum as a heritage-led attraction for Helensburgh. This will deliver further artworks, increasing the potential for the outdoor museum to act as a key tourist attraction for Helensburgh.
• Rockfield Centre, Oban – Phase two of outdoor works to enhance the external space, including improved car park and installation of EV charging facilities.

The PBI programme aims to improve people’s lives by supporting community-led projects and aligning investments with local needs and aspirations. This involves accelerating ambitions for net zero, wellbeing, and inclusive economic development while addressing inequalities and fostering community involvement. The selected projects are subject to formal confirmation from the Scottish Government.

Councillor Jim Lynch, Policy Lead for Economic Development, Islands, Rural Communities and Housing, said: “We are committed to strengthening sustainable development and enhancing the quality of life for residents. These projects will help us to do that by adding value to the council’s existing economic investment and helping to deliver regeneration outcomes for our local communities.”