COUNCIL officers have hailed work done to preserve Helensburgh town centre buildings at risk of structural issues and water ingress.
An update has been given to councillors on the town’s conservation area regeneration scheme (CARS), which has also seen “significant progress” made at the Mackintosh Club on Sinclair Street.
Premises at Colquhoun Street and West Clyde Street have been identified as having received conservation-led repairs to address issues.
The details feature in a report to go before Argyll and Bute Council’s environment, development and infrastructure committee at its meeting on Friday, October 9.
Executive director Kirsty Flanagan said: “Helensburgh CARS is a £2.4 million partnership project, funded by Argyll and Bute Council (£500,000), HES (£1.24m) and the owners of private property. The programme continues to demonstrate the transformative value of targeted investment in the historic built environment.
“Conservation-led repairs to 5 Colquhoun Street, 25–26 West Clyde Street and 1–3 Colquhoun Street have secured the future of these prominent town centre buildings, addressing long-standing structural and water ingress issues while significantly enhancing the appearance and vitality of the conservation area.
“Significant progress has also been made at the Category C-listed 22–34 Sinclair Street and the Category A-listed 36–40 Sinclair Street (Mackintosh Club), with works now approaching completion.
“Together, these projects are protecting nationally and locally significant heritage assets, improving the townscape, and helping to stimulate confidence and investment in Helensburgh town centre.”
Ms Flanagan added: “The benefits of the programme extend beyond the priority building projects. A number of small repair grants have supported essential roof and window repairs, helping property owners address maintenance issues and safeguard the wider historic building stock.
“In addition, funding for two complementary shopfront improvement projects has also helped to enhance the attractiveness of the town centre.
“Community engagement and capacity building have also remained central to the programme’s success, with final events including a webinar, delivered in partnership with Under One Roof, providing practical advice on common repairs and property maintenance, alongside a heritage restoration event focused on Helensburgh’s Outdoor Museum.
“Collectively, these activities are ensuring that the programme delivers lasting benefits through the preservation of the built environment, increased community awareness and stewardship, and a stronger sense of pride in Helensburgh’s unique historic character.”
