Business owners in many towns and villages across Argyll and Bute could be eligible for Crown Estates funding to improve the appearance of their shopfronts if they are in a conservation area.
The Scottish Government’s Crown Estate Fund aims to help sustain coastal communities with key categories including environment, community, climate change and economic development.
At a meeting in August, councillors agreed to allocate £150,000 of its total £800,000 Crown Estates allocation to help to support businesses with capital improvements to their shopfronts/buildings.
The fund is now open to businesses in the following areas to apply for individual grants up to £15,000: Bowmore, Campbeltown, Cardross, Cove, Kilcreggan, Dunoon, Tarbert, Helensburgh, Inveraray, Lochgilphead, Port Ellen, Rothesay, Tobermory
Application forms and further details can be found on the Invest in Argyll and Bute website. The deadline for applications is Friday 21 November 2025.
The council’s Depute Policy Lead for Business Development, Councillor Jan Brown, said: “Supporting the heritage of our towns and villages is a priority for the council. Enhancing shopfronts in our conservation areas not only supports the unique history and identity of our towns but it can also attract more footfall and contribute to long-term economic sustainability across Argyll and Bute.
“Through this Crown Estate funding, we’re giving local business owners and tenants the opportunity to invest in their premises in ways that respect and enhance their unique character. This is an investment not only in buildings, but in the long-term resilience and appeal of our communities.”
