Over 230 people attended a drop in event to find out more about the Dunoon CHORD plans at the Queen’s Hall last Tuesday (20 September).   

The CHORD team was on hand to answer questions and respond to comments.  There was an opportunity to look at plans for the Queens Hall, waterfront seascape and harbour master building as well as find out more on the Dunoon Pier Strategy. 

We want to get as much feedback as possible, so if you didn’t get a chance to come along to the event there’s still time to look at the plans and have your say.  You can do this on the Dunoon CHORD pages at http://www.argyll-bute.gov.uk/chord-project/dunoon-waterfront-project.

Chair of the Dunoon CHORD project board Councillor Bruce Marshall said, “I am delighted at the number of people who came to this event.  The CHORD project will have a major effect on Dunoon, both in terms of visual impact and economic regeneration.  It is therefore vitally important that we get as many views as possible. 

“The Dunoon CHORD project is a once in a lifetime opportunity to make a real difference to the town.  We have exciting plans for the waterfront area with the Queen’s Hall playing a pivotal role as an impressive visitor and events attraction.  Dunoon Pier, one of the best loved iconic structures in Dunoon, is also another main important area for discussion.”

Editor’s notes

Feedback from the drop in event by project:

Queens Hall – the majority of people were extremely positive about the refurbishment and extension to the Queens Hall. Most people were excited about the option for the visitor and events hub linking with the library/learning centre and soft play uses. Some suggestions focused on the desire to retain spaces for sports classes and dedicated areas/activities for teenagers. The idea of having access to a roof terrace had very positive feedback though a number of people thought that more covered areas would make the space more useful. The new access to Argyll Street and the upgraded lift facilities received very positive responses.

Transport and Streets – generally people were positive about the increase in public/pedestrian areas though some questioned the parking provision. Pedestrianisation of Argyll Street was suggested by a number of people though shop owners expressed concern over the potential impact on trade. The flexibility of the public spaces was seen as important and the potential for the weekly market to move from the waterfront car park was generally supported. Reservations were expressed over the wide open paved areas due to the potential for them to be cold or harsh during the winter months and more green space was suggested. People were largely positive and excited about the upgrade.

Harbourmaster Building – the function of the new waiting room building was a key topic with most people looking for somewhere to wait in comfort for the ferry with means of getting up to date information on ferry times and further connections. Some comments on the outline building design suggested that people would prefer to see a structure which was more in keeping with the other Victorian buildings on the waterfront.

Pier Strategy – the vast majority of people who have provided feedback to date were keen to see the pier retained and used in some form. Many people commented that the pier, and in particular the buildings, are seen as iconic and therefore very important to the Dunoon waterfront area. The suggested uses for the pier buildings ranged from cafes to museums and wildlife centres with some keen to see the open space used for summer markets and art exhibitions.