Plans to boost business and investment across Argyll and Bute have been approved.
The proposals will also create in excess of 1,000 jobs.
The local authority's £18.9m Tax Incremental Financing (TIF) scheme is expected to unlock £125m in private investment and also generate hundreds of construction jobs over the life of the project.
Under TIF, councils' fund infrastructure by borrowing against future business rate income generated by the resulting regeneration and development.
This five-year plan includes extending Oban North Pier, upgrading road links to established industrial areas, renewable energy projects and creating new business space at Oban airport.
The development of the TIF model for use in Scotland had been spearheaded by the Scottish Futures Trust.
Commenting on the announcement, Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: "The Argyll and Bute TIF will allow major construction developments across the area over the next five years, which will unlock significant economic development and regeneration.
"It will allow Argyll and Bute to maintain and grow a number of industries and sectors that are important nationally such as renewable energy, aquaculture and marine tourism.
"We will continue to use every lever at our disposal, within our devolved powers, to boost capital spending and through innovative financing schemes such as TIF, support jobs, apprenticeships and help the Scottish economy."
Argyll and Bute Council leader Dick Walsh added: "This is fantastic news, both for the people of Oban and the surrounding area, as well as the people of Argyll and Bute as a whole.
"This investment has the potential to create in excess of 1,000 jobs and is going to have a hugely positive impact on the lives of the people of Oban and the surrounding areas, bringing huge private sector investment to the area."
(JP/MH)
Time and date
CONSTRUCTION DIRECTORY
Latest Construction News
03/12/2024
ScottishPower has offered a lifeline to workers facing potential redundancy at Ineos's Grangemouth refinery and construction firm ISG. The energy company is preparing to recruit 1,000 people next year and is actively seeking skilled workers from these industries. Recognising the skillset overlap ...
03/12/2024
Temporis Capital, Clarke Energy, and Trina Storage have announced the start of construction on a 50MW/100MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Boat of Garten, Scottish Highlands. Clarke Energy will act as the EPC contractor, while Trina Storage will supply the BESS system, including its ...
03/12/2024
Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) has launched a new initiative, 'Demand Diversification', to explore innovative ways of managing peak electricity demand in the north of Scotland. The project involves real-world trials and simulations to assess the potential of demand-side response ...
03/12/2024
Procast Group, a leading principal contractor, has acquired Glasgow-based building surveying and cost consultancy firm JC+P Property and Construction Consultants in a six-figure deal. The acquisition aims to strengthen both businesses and facilitate future growth. JC+P's six-strong team will ...
03/12/2024
The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) is set to launch its third global survey to investigate the mental health challenges faced by construction workers. The previous study, published in 2020, revealed alarming statistics, including: • 97% of construction workers experiencing high levels of ...
03/12/2024
A public consultation is underway for the development of a new secondary school in Hazlehead. The consultation will provide an opportunity for the community to view proposed designs for the new Hazlehead Academy Campus and offer feedback. Aberdeen City Councillor Martin Greig, convener of the ...
02/12/2024
East Ayrshire Council has announced a £166 million investment plan to deliver hundreds of new and affordable homes across the region. The strategic plan, approved by local councillors, aims to address housing needs and improve the lives of residents. The council has already made significant ...
02/12/2024
Cala Homes (East) has secured a £4.8 million contract to build 21 new social rent homes on behalf of Fife Council. The new homes, a mix of two-bedroom cottage flats and terraced houses, will be built at the Inchcolm Green development in Aberdour. Construction is set to begin in January 2025 and is ...
02/12/2024
Thomas Johnstone Ltd, a renowned fit-out contractor, has been selected to undertake a multi-million-pound refurbishment project at Crieff Hydro Hotel. The project will involve creating a new day-to-night bar, upgrading dining areas, and introducing a stylish speakeasy bar. Despite the extensive ...
02/12/2024
A new extension to Sciennes Primary School in Edinburgh has been officially certified as a Passivhaus building, setting a new standard for energy-efficient school design in the city. The project has also been recognised with three prestigious industry awards. The £3.2 million extension, designed ...