Ministers sign £70m growth deal for Argyll and Bute

The Scottish and UK Governments have signed a £70m investment programme for Argyll & Bute.

The 10-year rural growth deal will see the them both contribute £25m every year while the local authority will also provide at least £20m.

It is thought the initiative could deliver 300 jobs, training opportunities for more than 6,000 people, support for business growth, new housing and worker accommodation, and more than 70,000 additional visitors to the area every year.

Scottish Secretary Ian Murray said: "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 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."

Leader of Argyll and Bute Council, Councillor Jim Lynch said: “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."

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