ONE of Argyll and Bute Council’s deputy leaders has voiced his delight at the announcement that the area’s rural growth deal is back on track.

The authority announced on Wednesday, October 30 that the £70 million deal was on course after a spending review by the UK Government.

The treasury’s share of the deal had initially been put on hold, but chancellor of the exchequer Rachel Reeves has given it the go-ahead again.

Councillor Ross Moreland (Liberal Democrat, Dunoon) shared leader Councillor Jim Lynch’s (SNP, Oban South and the Isles) delight at the news.

Cllr Moreland, who shares the deputy leadership with Councillor Audrey Forrest (SNP, Dunoon), told the Advertiser: “It is obviously very good news for Argyll and Bute to have the UK government commit to its share of the rural growth deal.

“The timing of the general election obviously slowed down the final confirmation of the deal but I am grateful to both governments for getting the deal over the line so quickly.

“The rural growth deal will allow us to deliver projects across Argyll and Bute, that could have a significant impact on our economy and the people of Argyll and Bute so it was vital that it went ahead in full, and I am delighted we will now be able to push forward with these investments.”

Among the projects lined up to benefit from the rural growth deal are Rothesay Pavilion, housing on Mull and Islay, an engineering cluster on the Clyde, and a seaweed and shellfish research and development centre.

Cllr Lynch said: “The deal will deliver significant economic growth for Argyll and Bute and the wider national economy. It will play a vital part in building long-term prosperity for our local communities so it’s great news that we can get back on track with making it happen.

“Argyll and Bute is an amazing area, to live, work and invest in, and the Deal has had strong public backing from the beginning. We continued to work with our Government partners in keeping the profile high of Argyll and Bute, and what it offers economically.

“We are very pleased with the announcement and look forward to progressing this in partnership.”