Plans to restore Art Deco pavilion take step forward as structural works begin

Plans to restore an Art Deco pavilion have taken a step forward as structural works begin in Argyll and Bute.

It comes after the Scottish Government committed £25m to the ten-year rural growth deal, £9m of which will be used for the refurbishment project.

The refurbishment plans will see the 1938 art deco Rothesay Pavilion on the Isle of Bute transformed into a “vibrant hub” for leisure, culture, and entertainment.

The pavilion is expected to create at least 14 direct local jobs, in addition to those created during the construction phase, and inject millions into the local economy.

It will feature an events space, office and work space facilities, a caretaker’s house, flexible exhibition space, craft retail/café space, dressing rooms, a young people’s studio, and outdoor areas.

Over the past few years, extensive work has been carried out to revive the pavilion.

A temporary tent structure shielded the building from the elements, allowing for crucial work on the twenty-two individual roofing areas, further repairs to the pre-cast stone facades, and the restoration of the caretaker’s building.

With this phase now complete, the project can move forward with structural works on the lower ground floor, and refurbishment of the main hall and installation of new sound and lighting equipment.

This stage will also see the restoration of the original box office and main staircase to its bygone days and the renovation of the café area.

It is estimated that construction work could be completed in early 2027.

Once completed, the building will be managed by the Rothesay Pavilion Charity, a registered Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO).

Argyll and Bute council leader, councillor Jim Lynch, said the iconic building was “steeped” in rich history.

“Situated at the heart of the town, it greets visitors arriving by ferry from Wemyss Bay and, once complete, it will be a valuable resource for day-to-day life in Rothesay, for visitors and residents alike,” he said.

He added that the project is about giving the building “a modern-day role and creating opportunities for regeneration, cultural enrichment, and high-value job creation” in Rothesay.

He continued: “Its reopening will drive the local economy and enhance daily life on Bute. Advancing to the next stage marks a significant milestone, and I am excited to see it progress.”

The project’s first stage was funded by the council, Historic Environment Scotland, Regional Capital Grants Fund, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, and the Coastal Communities Fund.

The final stages attracted additional support from the Argyll and Bute Rural Growth Deal and will be delivered by Robertson Construction Central West (RCCW), the same company that successfully carried out the stage one works.

Elliot Robertson, chief executive officer, Robertson Group, said: “Having completed the works to make the Pavilion wind and water tight, the project enters the second phase which will really see this historic building come back to life.

“The commitment shown by the council and funding partners, including support through the Rural Growth Deal, reflects a bold and forward-thinking vision for what the Pavilion can become, while preserving a significant piece of Scotland’s architectural heritage,” he said.

“Reimagined for contemporary audiences and users, it will not only serve as a vibrant tourist destination but also as a creative hub that brings long-term benefits to the local economy.”