PROPOSALS to install two new shopfronts in Rothesay town centre have been given the go-ahead by council chiefs.

Jack Xu’s plans relate to two independent units at 20A and 20B Argyle Street, which are used as an architect’s office and a paint shop respectively.

No representations, expressing either support or objection, were received by Argyll and Bute Council’s planning officers, who have awarded planning permission.

An officer said in a handling report: “All the proposed works represent an improvement to the appearance and fabric of the building and will have a positive impact upon the character and appearance of the conservation area and the town centre.

“The council’s vision is to make our main towns better places to live and the works to prominent town centre buildings are consistent with that vision.

“The application is therefore entirely consistent with the relevant provisions of the development plan and is recommended for approval.

“The properties are located within the settlement zone of Rothesay, is considered an appropriate site for refurbishment works to be undertaken sensitively in terms of the settlement pattern and landscape character of the area.

“The proposed works will be an uplift to the building and be of betterment with high quality materials. In this case, the proposal represents an appropriate opportunity for the alterations to an existing building,”

The officer added: “The shopfront will have a traditional appearance, it is considered that the proposed high quality design would successfully uplift the aesthetic of the current shopfronts thereby enhancing the character of the conservation area.”