A FIFTH priority building project is in the pipeline for Lochgilphead’s conservation area regeneration scheme, a report has revealed.

An update on the CARS project, which has 18 months left to run, will be given to councillors at a meeting next week.

Development is also currently taking place on Tarbert’s heritage regeneration scheme, with funding having been secured last year.

The details feature in a report to Argyll and Bute Council’s environment, development and infrastructure committee for its meeting on Thursday, September 12.

On the Lochgilphead project, executive director Kirsty Flanagan said: “Two priority building projects are almost complete, and work is progressing well on another two. A fifth priority building project is currently being developed.

“A number of small repair grant/shopfront improvement projects have been delivered and work is due to start on three shopfront reinstatement projects.

“Local stakeholders are benefiting from several traditional skills training courses and educational activities, delivered via the scheme. The next activity planned is a Keeping Warm in Older Homes drop-in event in late September.”

In relation to the Tarbert scheme, Ms Flanagan made reference to agreements to apply for funding to the Heritage and Place Programme, and the National Lottery.

She said: “Expressions of Interest to both funds were successful, with invitations made to apply for an initial development phase.

"A development application to HES (Historic Environment Scotland) was submitted on November 17, 2022 seeking £40,000, and a further application submitted to the National Heritage Lottery Fund on December 15, 2022, also seeking £40,000.

“In addition to the £80,000 sought from both funding programmes, the council have committed £60,000 of match funding to support a development phase totalling £140,000.

“The outcome of both applications were successful and following approval from full council on June 29, 2023, a project officer was recruited. The development phase is now progressing in close liaison with the funders and the community.

“Due to delays appointing consultants, it is now anticipated that this project will require an 18-month development phase.

"A report will be brought back to full council prior to any delivery phase bids being submitted.”