In a significant move to enhance economic growth in Argyll and Bute, the Scottish and UK governments have signed a £70 million Rural Growth Deal (RGD) with the local council. Each government has committed £25 million to the programme, while the council and its partners will provide at least £20 million in match funding.
This 10-year initiative aims to create at least 300 additional jobs, offer training opportunities for over 6,000 people, support business growth, develop new housing and worker accommodation, and attract more than 70,000 extra visitors annually. The deal is designed to drive innovation in marine science, enhance tourism, and provide training to help locals access employment opportunities.
Scottish Secretary Ian Murray highlighted the significance of this deal. He commented:
“It was an absolute privilege to visit the Isle of Bute to sign the transformational £70 million Argyll and Bute Rural Growth Deal. Being the final of Scotland’s 12 city and growth deals, it was an extra special moment. This means a package of more than £3 billion UK Government and partner investment is driving local growth and improving living standards for communities the length and breadth of Scotland.”
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes emphasised the region’s potential. She said:
“Argyll and Bute is full of potential with its rich history, spectacular scenery, vibrant communities and abundance of natural resources. We are providing £25 million through this Deal to create jobs, attract investment and secure the region’s economic future. The Deal will support projects to drive innovation in marine science, support training that enables local people to access jobs and boost tourism to deliver sustainable economic growth.”
Leader of Argyll and Bute Council, Councillor Jim Lynch, welcomed the investment, noting: “This is significant and very welcome investment in the economy and longer term future of Argyll and Bute. Our area boasts a number of key industries that support not only our local economy, but that of Scotland and the UK more widely.”
Key projects under the deal include the renovation of Rothesay Pavilion, which will receive £9 million for its internal fit-out, transforming it into a vibrant community and tourist hub.
Additionally, funding will support a new water sports hub in Campbeltown and initiatives like the Rural Skills Accelerator Programme and STEM Hubs across the region.
