A range of refurbishment and development projects for Oban has been approved by Argyll and Bute Council.

The new CHORD project will include the creation of a North Pier Quarter, as well as an improved seafront which will provide greater access to the town via ferry, train and bus.

Argyll and Bute Council’s CHORD project will see the regenration of five waterfront towns; Campbeltown, Helensburgh, Oban, Rothesay and Dunoon.

The programme has already seen a £30m investment by the Council.

The North Pier Quarter will be refurbished and reconfigured in a bid to address traffic congestion and benefit cruise passengers, tourists and residents.

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The Stafford Street area will be pedestrianised in order to improve the appearance of the area and to positively impact local businesses. This work, along with lay-by and parking improvements in Argyll Square, will begin next year.

The CHORD refurbishment will also see new signs, lighting, seats, bins and paving along Oban seafront including Queens Park Place and George Street. The first phase of this work is expected to be finished by April 2014.

Developments at the town’s ferry terminal are expected to create a 'Gateway to Oban' which will help the town capitalise on its proximity to the ferry terminal and rail and bus stations.

Chair of the Oban CHORD project board, Councillor Louise Glen-Lee said: "I am delighted at the improvements which will be happening in Oban and am really looking forward to seeing the results. The total budget for these projects is £6.9m and the money is being well spent on much needed improvements. I believe the town will hugely benefit from all of the work being done."

(IT)