A new grant programme is seeking applications from shop owners in Dunoon who would like to repair or renew their shopfronts.

Dunoon Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) is a grant programme focusing on the regeneration of historical buildings and is jointly funded by Historic Environment Scotland (HES) and Argyll and Bute Council.

Grants of up to 80% are available for owners of shops in the town’s Argyll Street, with more information and a map showing eligible properties available online at www.argyll-bute.gov.uk/dunoon-cars/grants

Expressions of interest are being invited from shop owners, with a deadline of Friday, June 1, 2018. The grants will come from the overall Dunoon CARS budget of £1.25million.

Councillor Aileen Morton, Council Leader and Policy Lead for Economic Development, said: “The CARS scheme was set up with a number of key aims, including to strengthen and enhance the character of Argyll Street and upgrade key properties along its length. It offers shop owners the chance to refresh or transform their stores and bring about real change for this historic street.

“I would urge shop owners to get their expressions of interest in before the deadline and I look forward to seeing the results of these grants and the positive effect this will have on Dunoon town centre.”

Expressions of interest can be made by contacting Dunoon CARS Project Officer, Feargal de Buiteléir, on 01546 604549 or via email on Feargal.De_Buiteleir@argyll-bute.gov.uk

Feargal can also be contacted in writing at Argyll and Bute Council, Whitegates Office, Whitegates Road, Lochgilphead, PA31 8SY.