Members of the Bute and Cowal Area Committee have agreed to revise its approach to a regeneration project of the town of Dunoon.

The revision is understood to centre around the previously marked closure of Queens Hall.

Earlier this week, however, it was agreed by members to delay the closure.

Initially, the closure of Queens Hall was scheduled for May 20154, with work to begin on the project shortly afterwards, but the hall will not now close until the end of 2014, with a monthly review of the date based on the progress of the project and property negotiations.

The council will be developing an updated project delivery plan which will be presented at the next area committee meeting.

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Councillor Robert E MacIntyre, Chair of the Bute and Cowal Area Committee, said: "Argyll and Bute Council is committed to effectively delivering this project but recognises the need for balance between short and long term goals.

"There is little sense in closing the building, meaning it cannot be used by the local community, when we are not in a position to begin work."

Leader of Argyll and Bute Council, Councillor Dick Walsh, added: "This is an example of us being flexible in our approach and ensuring the key systems are in place to deliver the project. Sometimes projects of this scale require flexibility.

"The project is currently operating within its £8.64m budget and we are excited to see it progress.

"We are determined to deliver this project and are committed to the regeneration of Dunoon."

The £8.64m project will improve leisure and recreational facilities for both residents and visitors including:

• Improving the street frontage and entrance

• Providing a modern, flexible events space

• A new library

• A new café

• A new play area

• New landscaping between the hall and the promenade

• A Visit Scotland office

• A shop and new offices for Skills Development Scotland.

(JP/CD)