Oban’s attractive new-look town centre was officially unveiled at the weekend.
The £2million facelift, which has seen George Street and Station Square receive the same treatment enjoyed by Stafford Street last year, is part of Argyll and Bute Council’s significant investment in the town.
Smart new marble paving and public seating has been installed right along the front on Oban’s main shopping thoroughfare.
Councillors performed a ribbon-cutting ceremony in Station Square on Saturday night, as the prelude to the public fireworks display, organised by Bid4Oban, the local Business Improvement District company.
Oban-based councillor, Elaine Robertson spoke on behalf of Ellen Morton, who was unable to attend the ceremony.
She said: “It’s a big decision to spend vast sums of public money on improvement projects like this one. But Oban has needed a facelift for a while, and it’s absolutely fantastic to have this work complete.
“Public realm work is about giving a town confidence. Giving people confidence, giving investors confidence, raising the mood of the area, stimulating growth and making people hopeful and ambitious for the future. This project has done just that.
“Local businesses are already seeing the benefits of the scheme. I’ve received lots of positive feedback on the high quality of the finish and the convenience of having such an accessible public space to be enjoyed by all.”
Ms Robertson added: “This isn’t the only show in town, though. This council has an impressive track record of investment in Oban.
“Despite these difficult financial times, we’re making sound, evidencebased financial outlays that will see real, tangible benefits to actual people on the ground.
“We’re working hard to improve the town, making it better, creating the right conditions for jobs and long0term sustainable economic growth.
“With the new Oban High School well underway, and set to open in the spring of 2018, and now with business cases approved for the new transit berthing facility and maritime visitor facility, the only way is up for Oban.
“I look forward to welcoming you all back for the opening of the new pontoons in summer 2018.”
Lead councillor for Oban Lorn and the Isles, Roddy McCuish, added: “The council has invested more than £2million in this project. It is a real vote of confidence in Oban and I am delighted to see it completed.”
