A historically disused building in Ardrishaig is to be transformed into a £1.5 million heritage and community hub.

The 'Egg Shed' will be redeveloped via a Scottish Canals-led partnership into a bespoke interpretation centre telling the story of Crinan Canal and the communities on its banks.

Oban-based contractor TSL is underway with construction and completion is scheduled for early 2019.

In addition to the creation of the interpretation attraction, the hub will include space for community activities as well as an array of public realm and access improvements. Proposals are in place to create new viewpoints and walkways around the building and new access connections with Ardrishaig.

The scheme, which also forms the first phase of the redevelopment of the former Gleaner Oil depot in the area, is being funded by the Scottish Government and the European Community Argyll and the Islands LEADER 2014-2020 programme, the Scottish Government Regeneration Capital Grant Fund; Scottish Canals; Argyll and Bute Council's Tarbert & Lochgilphead Regeneration Fund; SUSTRANS Community Links Fund; Shanks Argyll & Bute and Argyll & Bute Council through the Scottish Landfill Communities Fund; and Ardrishaig Community Trust.

-- Advertisement --

Christopher Breslin, Head of Regeneration and Development at Scottish Canals, said: "The redevelopment of the Egg Shed will help deliver a sustainable future for Ardrishaig, creating a fantastic tourist destination and a vital community resource that will bring jobs and economic benefits to the area.

"We're grateful to our funders and the local community for their support and look forward to welcoming them to the new hub in early 2019."

Aileen Morton, Policy Lead for Economic Development at Argyll & Bute Council, said: "It's great that Ardrishaig is another step closer to having the community and business resource its residents want. The redevelopment of this site is all about working with the local community to create jobs and boost the local economy and the project was championed by local people.

"The council has agreed to contribute up to a quarter of a million pounds to make this project possible, as part of our wider work to regenerate the Mid-Argyll area."

(LM)