Work to improve the junction at Barmore and Garvel Roads in Tarbert will begin later this year after the council's Policy and Resources Committee approved the plans.

The improvements to the junction were drawn up under the council's £3million Tarbert and Lochgilphead Regeneration Fund and will result in it being easier for vehicles to enter and exit Garvel Road in all directions, while also improving visibility and safety at the junction.

In turn, this will make further development possible along Barmore Road, including allowing Tarbert Harbour Authority to progress their proposals for development of their land and construction of a new car park.

A realigned junction will be provided where Garvel Road joins the A83 Barmore Road. It will be delivered by the council's Operations team, with the Policy and Resources Committee having allocated a budget of up to £295,000 which includes significant contingencies for any unforeseen expenses.

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A draft timetable for the work anticipates that it will be carried out between September and November 2019.

Previously as part of the Tarbert and Lochgilphead Regeneration Fund, the council last year agreed to allocate £125,000 to Tarbert Harbour Authority for their improvements to shore side facilities at Tarbert Harbour.

In what is an excellent example of partnership working, the shore side improvements include the conversion of the former wash house and laundry block into an office and chandlery – work on which was completed in April. A brand new wash house and laundry block was completed in January, with funding from the Coastal Communities Fund.

Still to come as part of these shore side improvements is a new waste facility and a new fuelling berth.

Finally, Tarbert Harbour Authority will progress work on a new car park once construction is completed on the improved junction at Barmore and Garvel Roads, with the car park due to be up and running by May 2020. It is anticipated that the increase in people using the harbour will boost footfall for businesses throughout the town.

The Tarbert and Lochgilphead Regeneration Fund was set up to promote regeneration and economic development of the area with a focus on creating jobs, growing the population and stimulating private sector activity.