Thank you to Douglas for holding the fort while I was away. Council is still in recess and at this halfway point of the year and with the benefit of the perspective that a holiday gives you I’ve been reflecting on the year so far.
Like many people, I spent some of my time off exploring parts of Argyll and Bute as a tourist in my own area. It’s easy when we’re busy to take for granted the places we live and work, but stepping back from the day job and seeing our communities through a different lens was a timely reminder of just how fortunate we are.
What struck me was how these experiences, while very different, all reflected something important about Argyll and Bute. Ours is a place deeply rooted in its local communities and traditions, but also one that welcomes ideas, talent, investment and visitors from around the world. The diversity of people who choose to live, work, invest, visit and build businesses here is part of what makes our area such a vibrant and dynamic place.
It also prompted me to reflect on the first half of the year. In local government there is rarely a moment to stand still. We move quickly from one challenge, project or decision to the next. We are still working on what a new Scottish Government is going to mean post the May elections, while we also wait to see if there are any changes that will come from the change in UK Prime Minister. Yet taking stock occasionally matters. Across the Council, colleagues have continued to deliver vital services, support communities, progress major projects, manage significant financial pressures and work alongside partners to improve outcomes for our residents.
Like many of the places I visited, much of what makes Argyll and Bute special depends on people who care deeply about their communities and who work every day to make them better. Whether you work directly with residents, maintain infrastructure, support colleagues behind the scenes or help shape our future direction, your contribution helps strengthen the places we all value so highly.
Spending time as a visitor has reinvigorated my appreciation for the remarkable place we serve and for the people, both within our communities and within the Council, who help make Argyll and Bute what it is.
Thank you for everything you have contributed so far this year. I look forward to working with you through the second half of 2026 as we continue to build on that strong foundation.
Have a lovely weekend.
Pippa
Pippa Milne
Chief Executive
