The Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) building work, which has breathed new life into the Loch Fyne town of Inveraray, is now complete.

Arkland, the fifth priority building in the town joins the Town House, Chamberlain’s House, the Old Temperance Hotel and Relief Land, in being painstakingly restored to its former glory.

Councillor Aileen Morton, Leader of Argyll and Bute Council, said:

“It’s fantastic to see the final piece of scaffolding coming down to reveal another revitalised building. Inveraray looks great and the regeneration work will help the council’s ambition of attracting more people to the historic town and the wider Argyll and Bute area.”

The work which has transformed the appearance of the buildings included repairs to chimneys, slating and leadwork. The materials used will make the buildings drier and warmer and increased their appeal as useable properties.

Councillor Morton continued: “We appreciate the hard work and dedication of the property owners, contractors and the council team and are grateful for the assistance of all our partners in making the conservation of the town’s important buildings a reality.” 

The conservation of the priority buildings was made possible by a council contribution of £350,000 and £970,000 CARS funding awarded by Historic Environment Scotland (HES). The total budget, which included contributions from the owners, Argyll Community Housing Association and private sector housing grant, was over £2 million.

Thomas Knowles, Head of Grants at Historic Environment Scotland said:

“It’s great that the work on Inveraray priority buildings is now complete with help from the Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme.

“Preserving built heritage is key to supporting improved quality of life across Scotland and this hard work and regeneration of the five buildings will no doubt be appreciated by those living the local area.”

In addition to the building work, the council CARS team facilitated skills training events for local contractors, which helped them secure work through the various projects.

The Inveraray CARS scheme will continue until March 2018, with the focus now being on supporting community engagement initiatives.