Central Belt blitz to boost business on Bute

PLANNING is under way to launch a fresh campaign to target tourists and bring greater numbers to Bute and benefit business right across the island.
The marketing blitz will focus on the Central Belt but intends to reach out across Scotland and beyond.
It will build on the earlier success of advertising hits at Glasgow Airport, Central Station and the city’s subway.
Tourism is the key to the future, said Phil Prentice, consultant adviser to the island’s Business Improvement District (BID).
“Businesses across Bute, not just in Rothesay, have told us they want to see more done to drive traffic here. That’s what we intend to do and we are working on the detailed rollout of a campaign to encourage people right across the Central Belt to head for Bute.
“Bute BID is engaging with VisitScotland, EventScotland and the Argyll and the Isles Tourism Cooperative to coordinate messaging and promotion and to ensure effective targeting.
“The BID team is currently balloting Bute businesses to secure a renewal of its term, currently scheduled to end in September.
“Renewal will mean further investment and opportunities for growth right across the island.”
Phil Prentice said: “We are continuing to ask questions, give answers and deliver action.
“There is no other body or organisation waiting in the wings to do what we do and what we can in the future.
“The BID team is refreshed and ready to continue to deliver on tourism and events.
“We are the right team at the right time. Bute is having a significant boost to its profile right now and being shortlisted as the UK Town of Culture 2028 takes the island to a greater audience than we could have envisaged even a few weeks ago.
“The shortlisting will help to boost our campaign to encourage people to come to Bute to stay for a day and more.
“The Winter Garden is iconic and going from strength to strength. The Pavilion opens next year and then we’ll have Adventure Lane coming on stream. There’s a lot to come here for.”
Phil Prentice also notes the great opportunities for outdoor lifestyle and sport right across Bute.
But he said a yes vote is vital to underpinning a better future for everyone on the island.
“If there’s something holding back your yes vote,” Mr Prentice advised, “then speak to me, and let me know your concerns and I’ll do my best to help out.”
The tourism advertising campaign will highlight and aim to attract visitors right across the 2027 season.