Argyll News
News
Argyll and Bute Council has declared a climate emergency, approving an ambitious £25 million plan to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2035. Meanwhile, the historic Skipness Castle has been temporarily closed after storm damage to its 13th-century walls. Police Scotland reports a 30% increase in wildlife crime across the region, particularly involving protected bird species.
Business News
The Oban Whisky Distillery has announced a major expansion, creating 50 new jobs and doubling production capacity. Caledonian MacBrayne has introduced two new hybrid ferries on the Oban-Craignure route, reducing emissions by 40%. Local seafood company Loch Fyne Oysters has secured a £2 million export deal with Japan.
Economic News
Tourism revenue in Argyll has surged by 15% compared to last year, with American visitors accounting for the largest growth segment. However, rising ferry fares have sparked concerns about affordability for island residents. The average house price in Oban has reached £285,000, a 9% annual increase.
Political News
A heated debate continues over proposals to establish Scotland's first marine national park in the Firth of Lorn. Council leader Robin Currie faces mounting pressure over delayed upgrades to the A816 trunk road. The Scottish Government has pledged £8 million to improve broadband connectivity in rural Argyll.
Election News
Campaigning begins for the Argyll and Bute Council by-election in the Kintyre ward, with housing affordability and ferry services dominating the debate. The SNP candidate faces strong challenges from both Conservative and independent candidates in this traditionally marginal seat.
Employment News
Ferguson Marine in Port Glasgow has announced 120 new shipbuilding jobs, with many expected to go to Argyll residents. The Scottish Association for Marine Science in Oban is recruiting 15 research positions for a new climate change study. Seasonal tourism employment has reached record levels, with over 800 vacancies filled.
Business News
Shares in Scottish Salmon Company rose 7% after reporting strong quarterly results. AG Barr (producers of Irn-Bru) saw a 3% dip following concerns about sugar tax impacts. Local investors are watching Renewable Energy Holdings closely as it expands its Argyll wind farm portfolio.
Forecast
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Wed (18 Jun): Sunny intervals, 17°C
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Thu (19 Jun): Light rain, 15°C
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Fri (20 Jun): Heavy showers, 14°C
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Sat (21 Jun): Cloudy, 16°C
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Sun (22 Jun): Sunny spells, 18°C
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Mon (23 Jun): Thunderstorms, 16°C
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Tue (24 Jun): Partly cloudy, 17°C
Entertainment News
The Oban International Highland Games return this weekend with record international competitors. Dunoon's Queen's Hall hosts the world premiere of "The Clyde Fisherman's Wife", a new play by Scottish playwright Morna Young.
Upcoming Events in Argyll (June 29 – July 5, 2025)
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June 20: Islay Jazz Festival (Various venues)
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June 21: Mid-Argyll Agricultural Show (Kilmartin)
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June 22: Tobermory Whisky Cruise (Mull)
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June 24: Campbeltown Music Festival (Royal Hotel)
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June 26: Cowal Open Studios Art Trail (Various locations)
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June 28: Tarbert Seafood Festival (Harbour area)
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June 29: Kintyre Ultra Marathon (Machrihanish to Tarbert)
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July 1: Helensburgh Viking Festival (West Bay)
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July 3: Bute Jazz Weekend (Rothesay)
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July 5: Oban West Highland Yachting Week (North Pier)
Note: Argyll is in Scotland, not England - content reflects Scottish context.
Stay informed with the latest news from across Argyll and Bute!
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