Work will begin next month on the restoration of 15-19 Argyll Street in Lochgilphead, the fifth building to benefit from the Lochgilphead Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS).

The property, currently in poor condition, will undergo extensive repairs to its roof, chimney, leadwork, stonework, and cast-iron features. Argyll and Bute Council's Policy and Resources Committee approved a £21,220 Private Sector Housing Grant, in addition to a £166,000 CARS grant and a £20,000 owner contribution, to fund the project. A detailed maintenance plan will ensure the building's upkeep for the next 60 years.

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The £2.3M CARS programme, jointly funded by the council and Historic Environment Scotland (HES) with owner contributions, focuses on regenerating historic buildings, promoting traditional skills training, and engaging the community. The scheme aims to preserve Lochgilphead's heritage and enhance its visual appeal for residents and visitors.

Other buildings that have benefited from the scheme include 1 Argyll Street, 2-4 Argyll Street, 6-10 Argyll Street, and 3-17 Colchester Square. Shopfront improvements are also underway at several businesses, including Argyll Café, Argyll Pharmacy, Argyll Wealth Consultants, and Café 35.

"The Lochgilphead CARS project has delivered a huge number of benefits for the local community," said Council Leader, Councillor Jim Lynch. "The regeneration work to priority buildings has helped to enhance the town's infrastructure, preserving these historic buildings for generations to come and helping to ensure residents and visitors continue to see Argyll and Bute as a great location to live, work and visit."