Argyll and Bute’s council has had its Scottish Government funding cut by more than the Scottish average, meaning millions of pounds will have to be cut from council budgets in 2020/21.
The local authority’s capital budget has been cut by 21% compared to the Scottish average of 17%.
Its revenue budget, for the day to day running of services, has been cut by 1.4% compared to the Scottish average of 1%.
Council leader councillor Aileen Morton said: “Argyll and Bute covers the second largest area, and has the highest number of inhabited islands, of all Scotland’s councils. This means that services can be more expensive to deliver.
“This level of cut will mean more impact on our day-to-day services.
“It also puts obstacles in place to growing the local economy at a time when Argyll and Bute needs to attract people and jobs to the area.”
Ms Morton welcomed news that the Scottish Government is increasing its investment in ferry services by £1 million.
She said: “The Scottish Government, via Transport Scotland, funds ferry services in other parts of Scotland.
“We have worked to secure similar support for Argyll and Bute, to support both our day to day costs and the replacement of the Lismore ferry.
“What we need now is formal confirmation of our allocation.”.
The council will meet to set its budget on Thursday February 27.
