THE BOARD of Bute Berthing Company (BBC) is retiring in the autumn and calling on Argyll and Bute Council to step forward to take over the management of the prestigious marina in Rothesay.
The current marina team of volunteers said the council raised such a proposition three years ago. The harbour veterans are now keen the local authority takes charge as discussed and agreed.
One of the board, Tim Saul, said the council initially asked for a meeting to discuss the future operation of the marina. “They said they wanted to take over its management and we said we’d be happy for them to do so,” he said.
There has been a lull in that process, now stretching across several years, so Mr Saul and his colleagues are trying to push the hand of the council.
“We have told them we will cease to be responsible from the first of November. We are all retiring then. We’re not really wanting to put anyone into a corner, but yes, we are pushing this a bit,” he told The Isle of Bute News.
Bute Berthing Company Ltd have managed marina facilities in Rothesay for the past 32 years.
From humble beginnings, with a couple of strings of swinging moorings in Rothesay Bay, to the present-day modern facilities in Rothesay Inner and Outer Harbours, Bute Berthing has been operated by a group of volunteer directors for the benefit of visiting mariners and local businesses.
Mr Saul said: “Millions of pounds have been spent by visiting mariners over the last quarter century, proving a valuable boost to the local economy of Bute.
“The local economy has seen spends on berthing fees, using the golf club and food and drink.
“It can continue to be good for the town.”
Now after careful consideration, the board of directors of Bute Berthing Company Ltd have decided to hand over the management of Rothesay Marina to Argyll and Bute Council, as owners of the harbour facilities. The change will take place with effect from November 1 2026.
Meantime, all pontoon operations will continue to be managed by Bute Berthing, and further information on the
arrangements beyond November will be advised in due course.
The council has already redeveloped the marina, introducing new pontoons and positions to replace
worn-out fittings.
Rothesay Harbour is the principal harbour for the Isle of Bute, with fishing and commercial interests, as well as a marina with 68 berths operated by Bute Berthing Company.
Argyll and Bute Council has been invited to comment.
