After extensive consultation the design team involved with the renovation of Dunoon’s Waterfront have presented options for each of the four main parts of the plan to the project board.

The designs are for the Queen’s Hall, the roads, the ferry waiting room and the harbourmaster building and pier.

Improving the appearance and performance of the Queen's Hall is seen as essential to the success of the waterfront project. One of the options being considered is to extend and refurbish it to accommodate a visitor and events attraction, which would be suitable for wet weather.

There are also plans to simplify the roads around Dunoon’s waterfront and improve its appearance. Better planting and new lighting is also being considered to create a more pleasant environment for locals and visitors.

-- Advertisement --

The initial design for the ferry waiting room and harbourmaster building has been based on the design approved at the time of the breakwater and linkspan development, as well as fitting in with the current ferry service.

The pier strategy has involved reviewing previous structural assessments and potential repair costs. The design team will work closely with Historic Scotland and other consultants to refine the options for the structure and potential uses for the pier buildings.

Chair of the Dunoon CHORD Project Board, Councillor Bruce Marshall, welcomes the plans: "The options and design presented by the team offer an exciting opportunity for Dunoon to create a waterfront environment which will draw local people and visitors to the area to enjoy what is on offer. I look forward to seeing further development of the options presented and also to the delivery of the full business case in early 2012. When refined and implemented these impressive changes to the waterfront will be a major boost to Dunoon and act as a catalyst for further economic regeneration.

"I am pleased that the study of Dunoon Pier has come up with a viable option as an alternative to demolition and that this wonderful iconic Victorian structure which is the last of its kind in Scotland, could be retained as the very important welcoming feature and marine gateway for visitors to Dunoon and the National Park."

The design options will be presented to the people of Dunoon at an open event in the next few weeks.

(JG/CD)