Historic Scotland funding for historic properties in Argyll

Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop has visited a number of historic sites in Argyll which are to benefit from Historic Scotland funding. One of the key sites on the tour was Scotland's oldest continually working cinema, the Wee Picture House at Campbeltown (pictured) which received a £449,674 award from Historic Scotland last year. The cinema, which celebrates its centenary this year, will undergo ongoing conservation work and the grant is part of a potential £2.3 million package which will fund an extensive restoration programme, due for completion in 2017.

Buildings which will benefit from repair works include:

• The Temperance Hotel
• Chamberlain’s House
• Town House

There will also be a small grants scheme running for other properties located within the Conservation Area as well as some training and educational activities.

Fiona Hyslop said: 'Scotland’s town centres are at the heart of our communities, and it is vital that their historic fabric is valued, maintained and protected. CARS repair grants assist vital restoration works to buildings across Scotland, and I was pleased to be able to see first-hand the historic buildings in Inveraray which are to benefit from funding.

'Inveraray has a charming, bustling High Street and its historic character is a vital part of that. I am delighted that this funding will help to preserve that character, to the cultural and economic benefit of the town.

'The Picture House in Campbeltown is considered to be the oldest continually run cinema in Scotland, and is one of just a few remaining early purpose-built cinemas in the UK. It’s also a vital resource for Campbeltown and is a well-used and much-loved building in the town.

'I am pleased to have the opportunity to visit it in its centenary year and am delighted that Historic Scotland has been able to play a key role in conserving it for future generations to enjoy.'

JEWELS OF ARGYLL AND BUTE

Argyll and Bute Council’s Lead Councillor for Environment, Development and Infrastructure, Councillor John Semple, added: 'Inveraray is one of Argyll and Bute’s prettiest towns and the CARS scheme promises considerable improvements and regeneration of some of its key buildings.

'Campbeltown’s historic Picture House is a real local success story and the people who have worked so hard to retain it in its charming original form are to be congratulated.

'Both projects are very important not only to the local communities but to Argyll and Bute as a whole. I am very happy that Fiona Hyslop, the Cabinet Secretary for Culture and External Affairs, has been able to see these Argyll and Bute jewels during her visit to the area.'

(Image copyright Gary Sutherland, Geograph Project)

Keep up to date with the latest history news, discoveries and research in every issue of History Scotland and Scottish Memories magazines, available in print and digital versions.