PLANS have been lodged for a community, wellbeing, creative and educational space in a vacant second-floor office in Rothesay.
Kinship and Wellbeing CIC has applied to Argyll and Bute Council for planning permission for the site at 9-10 King Street.
Proposals for use also include sound baths, yoga, movement and arts and crafts, as well as supporting activities “that may evolve in response to community need and the organisation’s future development”.
The council is expected to rule on the application in late December, with the public now able to view plans and submit feedback.
A supporting statement submitted with the application said: “The individuals involved in Kinship and Wellbeing CIC have an established presence in the local community as independent practitioners, delivering wellbeing, creative and community-focused activities through hired venues and other temporary spaces.
“The CIC has recently been formed to bring this existing work together within a more sustainable, collaborative and community-focused model. Its activities include sound baths, yoga, dance/movement, art sessions, women’s and men’s groups, workshops, journalling and creative activities, as well as collaborative sessions with other local organisations.
“The CIC’s objective is to establish a permanent, flexible base from which this existing work can be developed, expanded and made more accessible to the local community.
“The proposed premises will provide a flexible community and wellbeing space from which Kinship and Wellbeing CIC can operate and grow.
“The space will be used to accommodate the above range of activities, as well as community gatherings, meetings, one-to-one sessions, hot desk sessions and private hire where appropriate. It will also provide space for the CIC’s administrative and operational activities.
“The intention is that the different rooms and open areas within the premises can be used flexibly according to the needs of the organisation and the community, allowing the CIC to adapt and develop its services over time without requiring significant changes to the premises.”
The document added: “The use of an existing building also allows the CIC to make productive use of an under used office space while providing a dedicated facility for activities that are intended to benefit the wider community.
“There is currently no other organisation or venue on the island offering similar services in this structure. We believe this will be a valuable addition to the community and the island, serving both locals and visitors.”
To view the plans and submit feedback, visit the council’s planning portal at argyll-bute.gov.uk and use the reference number 26/01520/PP.
