Argyll and Bute Council to submit bid for multi-million pound rural growth deal

Oban - Image credit: Ronnie Macdonald via Flickr

Argyll and Bute Council is to submit a funding bid to the UK and Scottish governments for a multi-million pound rural growth deal.

The council has agree its bid, which would see investment in areas such as transport, broadband, education and business innovation.

The bid is made up of sixteen different projects bringing together local and national organisations, as well as public and private sector agencies.

They include improving road and air transport links between Argyll and the central belt by developing Oban Airport and progressing improvements to key roads such as the A83 and A85.

There are also plans to developing key Argyll industries such as aquaculture and marine science excellence, piloting food and drink expansion on Bute, creating a business hub in Helensburgh and Investigating the potential to relocate some government funded departments to Argyll.

Argyll and Bute Council leader Councillor Aileen Morton said: “Argyll has natural resources that could deliver a great future for Argyll itself, and be an even greater driver for growth in the UK and Scottish economies.

“Investment could see Argyll lead the world in business sectors such as marine science.

“It could develop key routes to market for our world-renowned food and drink produce. It could bring the people and talent we need for our future.

“The more support Argyll gets from the UK and Scottish governments, the more Argyll can thrive and in turn support the UK and Scottish economies.

We’ve reached a significant milestone today in unanimously agreeing this ambitious bid.

“Seeking a rural growth deal is all about seeking fair treatment for Argyll, to deliver long-term benefit for Argyll, Scotland and the UK.”