Compelling Argyll and Bute Sub Regional

Sub Regional Socio Economic Baseline Report July 2015

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Contents

1. OVERVIEW ...... 1

1.1 INTRODUCTION ...... 1

1.2 BACKGROUND ...... 1

1.3 REPORT FORMAT ...... 2

2. BUTE AND COWAL ...... 3

2.1 INTRODUCTION ...... 3

2.2 ECONOMIC PROFILE ...... 3 2.2.1 Population ...... 3 2.2.2 Area Forecasts ...... 6 2.2.3 Settlement Profiles ...... 6 2.2.4 Labour Market ...... 8 2.2.5 Employment ...... 8 2.2.6 Employment Profile ...... 9 2.2.7 Business Base ...... 10 2.2.8 Micro Businesses ...... 12

2.3 SKILLS PROFILE ...... 13 2.3.1 Workforce Qualifications ...... 13 2.3.2 Occupational Profiles ...... 14 2.3.3 School Attainment...... 15 2.3.4 School Leaver Destinations ...... 16 2.3.5 Further Education ...... 17

2.4 AREA ASSET AUDIT ...... 17 2.4.1 Overview ...... 17 2.4.2 Housing Profile ...... 18 2.4.3 Education and Health ...... 21 2.4.4 Business Property...... 23 2.4.5 Transport ...... 25 2.4.6 Tourism, Leisure and Culture...... 29 2.4.7 FDI Profile ...... 33 2.4.8 Retail Sector ...... 34

2.4.9 Utilities Review ...... 35 2.4.10 Community Services and Access ...... 35

3. OBAN LORN AND THE ISLES ...... 37

3.1 INTRODUCTION ...... 37

3.2 ECONOMIC PROFILE ...... 37 3.2.1 Demography ...... 37 3.2.2 Area Forecasts ...... 40 3.2.3 Settlement Profile ...... 40 3.2.4 Labour Market ...... 40 3.2.5 Employment Profile ...... 42 3.2.6 Business Base ...... 44 3.2.7 Micro Businesses ...... 45

3.3 SKILLS PROFILE ...... 46 3.3.1 Workforce Qualifications ...... 46 3.3.2 Occupational Profile ...... 47 3.3.3 School Attainment...... 48 3.3.4 School Leaver Destinations ...... 49 3.3.5 Further Education ...... 50

3.4 AREA ASSET AUDIT ...... 51 3.4.1 Overview ...... 51 3.4.2 Housing Profile ...... 52 3.4.3 Education and Health ...... 54 3.4.4 Business Property...... 56 3.4.5 Transport ...... 59 3.4.6 Tourism, Leisure and Culture...... 65 3.4.7 FDI Profile ...... 70 3.4.8 Retail Sector ...... 70 3.4.9 Utilities Review ...... 71 3.4.10 Community Services and Access ...... 72

4. HELENSBURGH AND LOMOND ...... 73

4.1 INTRODUCTION ...... 73

4.2 ECONOMIC PROFILE ...... 73 4.2.1 Population ...... 74

4.2.2 Area Forecasts ...... 77 4.2.3 Labour Market ...... 79 4.2.4 Employment Profile ...... 80 4.2.5 Residence Based Employment ...... 81 4.2.6 Business Base ...... 83 4.2.7 Overview ...... 83 4.2.8 Micro Businesses ...... 84

4.3 SKILLS PROFILE ...... 85 4.3.1 Workforce Qualifications ...... 85 4.3.2 Occupational Profile ...... 86 4.3.3 School Attainment...... 87 4.3.4 School Leaver Destinations ...... 89 4.3.5 Further Education ...... 90

4.4 AREA ASSET AUDIT ...... 90 4.4.1 Overview ...... 90 4.4.2 Housing Profile ...... 91 4.4.3 Education and Health ...... 93 4.4.4 Business Property...... 95 4.4.5 Transport Review ...... 97 4.4.6 Tourism, Leisure and Culture...... 99 4.4.7 FDI Profile ...... 104 4.4.8 Retail Sector ...... 104 4.4.9 Utilities Review ...... 105 4.4.10 Community Services and Access ...... 105

5. MID ARGYLL, KINTYRE AND THE ISLANDS ...... 107

5.1 INTRODUCTION ...... 107

5.2 ECONOMIC PROFILE ...... 107 5.2.1 Population ...... 107 5.2.2 Area Forecasts ...... 110 5.2.3 Labour Market ...... 111 5.2.4 Employment Profile ...... 112 5.2.5 Business Base ...... 114 5.2.6 Micro Businesses ...... 115

5.3 SKILLS PROFILE ...... 116 5.3.1 Workforce Qualifications ...... 116 5.3.2 Occupational Profile ...... 117 5.3.3 School Attainment...... 118 5.3.4 School Leaver Destinations ...... 120 5.3.5 Further Education ...... 121

5.4 AREA ASSET AUDIT ...... 121 5.4.1 Overview ...... 121 5.4.2 Housing Profile ...... 122 5.4.3 Education and Health ...... 125 5.4.4 Business Property...... 127 5.4.5 Transport ...... 131 5.4.6 Ferries ...... 133 5.4.7 Tourism, Leisure and Culture...... 135 5.4.8 FDI Profile ...... 141 5.4.9 Retail Sector ...... 142 5.4.10 Utilities Review ...... 142 5.4.11 Community Services and Access ...... 143

1. Overview

1.1 Introduction

This research is driven by a requirement of Argyll and Bute Council and their Partners to address one of the key themes within the Argyll and Bute Economic Development Action Plan (EDAP).

This report is submitted to set out the socio economic context within the four sub regions within Argyll and Bute and builds on the region wide review prepared as part of the baseline assessment.

1.2 Background

The research project is driven by the Argyll and Bute Council’s Economic Development Action Plan (EDAP1) which sets out the economic priorities for the region over the next few years and in particular the key actions outlined in the Economic Development Action Plans for the four administrative areas across Argyll and Bute which are:

 Bute and Cowal;

 Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands;

 Helensburgh & Lomond; and

 Oban, Lorn & the Isles.

The plan is based around four key themes, and this study will focus in the main on Theme 4 - Compelling Argyll and Bute2 which seeks to increase the profile of the area to attract economically active new residents (individuals and families), inward investors and visitors. It is therefore focused on growing the (working age) population as a high level objective.

1 copy in folder 2 Competitive Argyll and Bute; Connected Argyll and Bute; Collaborative Argyll and Bute 1

The primary objectives of this study are to:

 undertake a detailed economic profiling and analysis of Argyll and Bute and each of the four sub-areas, with a particular focus on skills development issues; and

 develop ‘compelling’ propositions/promotional action plans for Argyll and Bute and each of its four sub-areas.

The study therefore seeks to address the key issues and challenges of reversing the long term population decline as a major driver of achieving economic growth.

1.3 Report Format

The sub regional socio economic reviews are based largely on an analysis of published and available information, data and previous reports. It covers the following:

 Chapter 2: Economic profile;

 Chapter 3: Skills profile; and

 Chapter 4: Area asset audit.

It should be noted that not all of the data is available at sub regional level and as such reference should be made to the region wide assessment presented as a separate document.

In addition, there are suppression rules which means we MUST show aggregated data and cannot provide finite figures.

2. Bute and Cowal

2.1 Introduction

This chapter sets out an analysis of the economic and skills profile of the Bute and Cowal administrative area.

2.2 Economic Profile

This section includes a review and profile of the following factors:

 demography/ population;

 labour market;

 employment;

 industry output;

 key sectors; and

 business base.

2.2.1 Population

Overview

The population of Bute and Cowal was 21,060 in 2013, making it the second smallest of the council’s administrative districts.

The Bute and Cowal area and the Argyll and Bute region overall has a lower proportion of working age people, a lower proportion of children, and more people of pensionable age than Scotland as a whole (Table 2.1).

Table 2.1: Bute & Cowal Population, 2013

Total Pensionable population Children Working age age

Bute & Cowal 21,060 14.5% 57.2% 28.3% Argyll & Bute 88,050 15.7% 60.9% 23.4% Scotland 5,327,700 17.1% 65.1% 17.8%

Source: SNS

Bute and Cowal has seen a fall in its population since 2001, with the decline beginning in 2004. A similar population change can be witnessed in Argyll and Bute, but this is in contrast to a rising population in Scotland – Figure 2.1.

Figure 2.1: Population Trends, 2001-2011

Source: Scottish Neighbourhood Statistics (SNS)

The decline in population in Bute and Cowal, at -4% over ten years, is more pronounced than the regional trend (-2%), both of which contrast greatly with Scotland’s 4% population growth over this period.

Figure 2.2: Population Trend – Children, 2001-2011

Source: SNS

Figure 2.3: Population Trend – Working Age, 2001-2011

Source: SNS

Figure 2.4: Population Trend – Pensioners, 2001-2011

Source: SNS

Bute and Cowal is witnessing a greater decrease in the number of children (-21%) than Argyll and Bute as a whole (-17%), although the decrease in its working age population (-4%) is broadly the same as the region as a whole (-4%).

Bute and Cowal’s increase in people of a pensionable age (8%) is less than Argyll and Bute’s (16%) and Scotland as a whole (10%).

2.2.2 Area Forecasts

Although population forecasts are not provided at sub-local authority level, we have been provided with some additional information by Argyll and Bute Council. However, this should be seen as descriptive only – Table 2.2.

Table 2.2: Bute and Cowal Population Projection

2012 2037 Change %

Children 3,103 1,831 -1,272 -41%

Working age 12,268 7,764 -4,504 -37%

Pensionable age 5,847 5,960 113 2%

Total 21,218 15,556 -5,662 -27%

Source: Argyll and Bute Council Pensionable age is 65 in 2012, rising to 68 in 2037.

Bute and Cowal, by these projections, is predicted to see the largest decrease in children and adults of working age of any of Argyll and Bute’s four administrative areas.

By 2037, it is forecast that the population of people of working age in Bute and Cowal will outnumber those of pensionable age by approximately 1,800. As a comparison, the working age population in Scotland is currently over three times that of those of a pensionable age.

If these forecasts are accurate, then an additional strain on public sector resources, particularly health, can be anticipated.

2.2.3 Settlement Profiles

Changes in the population of key settlements in Bute and Cowal is provided below.

Figure 2.5: Population Change in Bute and Cowal Settlements, 1991 – 2012

Source: SNS

Table 2.3: Population Change in Bute and Cowal Settlements, 1991 – 2012

Locality Est Population Change 2003/12 Since 1991

1991 2003 2010 2012 No % No %

Dunoon 9,038 8,160 9,400 9,540 1,380 17% +502 5%

Innellan 1,142 1,180 1,180 980 -200 -17% -162 -17% Port Bannatyne 1,385 1,390 1,230 1,200 -190 -14% -185 -15%

Rothesay 5,264 5,040 4,750 4,540 -500 -10% -724 -16%

Sandbank 1,543 800 - - -800 -100% - -

Tighnabruaich - - 660 520 -140 -21% - -

Est. Total* 17,489 17,220 18,020 17,580 360 -2.5% +91 +0.5%

Source: SNS *For settlements with missing data points, ceteris paribus assumptions are made where the nearest existing data is used to estimate the total

Dunoon is the only settlement in Bute and Cowal which saw an increase in its population between 1991 and 2012, with other settlements experiencing a population decrease of up to 17%.

2.2.4 Labour Market

Table 2.4, below, shows the number of people seeking out of work benefits in the area.

Table 2.4: Claimant Count, 2004-2014

Area 2004 2014 (June)

No % No % Isle of Bute 166 3.9% 146 4% Dunoon 170 3.9% 172 4.1% Cowal 127 2.6% 85 1.9%

Source: NOMIS

The Isle of Bute and Dunoon have the highest rates of claimant count in the area, while the rate in Cowal is generally more representative of Argyll and Bute as a region (2%).

2.2.5 Employment

Employment in Bute and Cowal has declined from 8,822 in 2009 to 7,111 in 2013, a decline of 19%.

This is around five times higher than Argyll and Bute as a whole (Table 2.5).

Table 2.5: Employment Count, 2009-2013

2009 2013 Change %

Bute & Cowal 8,822 7,111 1,711 -19% Argyll & Bute 36,861 35,484 -1,377 -4% Scotland 2,406,782 2,357,757 -49,025 -2%

2.2.6 Employment Profile

Table 2.6: Employment and Change 2009-2013) in Bute and Cowal by 2-digit SIC

Sector Emp Change* 02 : Forestry and logging 03 : Fishing and aquaculture 08 : Other mining and quarrying 10 : Manufacture of food products 200 11 : Manufacture of beverages 25 : Manufacture of fabricated metal products, except machinery etc. 41 : Construction of buildings 100 42 : Civil engineering 100 43 : Specialised construction activities 100 45 : Wholesale and retail trade and repair of motor vehicles etc. 100 46 : Wholesale trade, except of motor vehicles and motorcycles 100 47 : Retail trade, except of motor vehicles and motorcycles 600 -150 49 : Land transport and transport via pipelines 100 50 : Water transport 100 52 : Warehousing and support activities for transportation 53 : Postal and courier activities 55 : Accommodation 550 -100 56 : Food and beverage service activities 300 68 : Real estate activities 200 71 : Architectural and engineering activities; technical testing and analysis 72 : Scientific research and development 77 : Rental and leasing activities 78 : Employment activities 81 : Services to buildings and landscape activities 150 +100 82 : Office administrative, office support and other business support 300 84 : Public administration and defence; compulsory social security 900 -1,000 85 : Education 600 -100 86 : Human health activities 550 87 : Residential care activities 400 -100 88 : Social work activities without accommodation 350 91 : Libraries, archives, museums and other cultural activities 50 93 : Sports activities and amusement and recreation activities 200 +50 96 : Other personal service activities 100 +50

Source: BRES/NOMIS, 2013. Data subject to rounding restrictions *Data relates to sub-sectors where the change is greater than 50

The number of jobs in the area has declined across a number of sectors, including the public sector, retail, residential care and accommodation. 9

Despite heavy losses to public sector employment (over 50%) it remains the largest source of employment in the area. Bute and Cowal has had the greatest number of job losses of any of the four administrative areas in Argyll and Bute since 2009.

Other key employment sectors in Bute and Cowal are real estate (200 employees), health (550) and care work (400). The high incidence of employment in care and health is perhaps indicative of the area’s ageing population.

Table 2.7: Employment Profile 2013

Part-time Full-time % Part-time

Male 732 3,915 15.8% Bute & Cowal Female 2,048 2,287 47.2% Total 2,780 6,202 31% Male 2,792 19,475 12.5% Argyll & Bute Female 8,982 10,546 46% Total 11,774 30,021 28.2% Male 170,237 112,5078 13.1% Scotland Female 535,380 686,200 43.8% Total 705,617 1,811,278 28%

Source: NOMIS

From the data we can see that while overall Argyll and Bute has a similar percentage of part time jobs to the national figure (28%), it is significantly higher in Bute and Cowal (31%). This sub-area has a higher rate of part time jobs for both males and females when compared to both the local authority area and Scotland.

The employment base in Bute and Cowal can be defined by its reliance on the public sector and its disproportionately high level of part time work.

2.2.7 Business Base

The largest number of businesses in Bute and Cowal are in the ‘Retail’, ‘Accommodation and Food Service’ (15.1%) and ‘Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing’ (13.4%) sectors – Table 2.8.

Table 2.8: Business Base in Bute & Cowal 2014

Bute and Cowal Argyll & Bute Scotland

No. % No. % No. % Agriculture, forestry & fishing 115 13.4% 880 19.8% 17,570 8.6% Production 40 4.7% 275 6.2% 10,935 5.4% Construction 70 8.1% 370 8.3% 18,535 9.1% Motor trades 5 0.6% 95 2.1% 5,150 2.5% Wholesale 20 2.3% 135 3.0% 7,535 3.7% Retail 130 15.1% 545 12.3% 23,045 11.3% Transport & storage (inc. postal) 15 1.7% 190 4.3% 6,535 3.2% Accommodation & food services 115 13.4% 480 10.8% 15,375 7.5% Information & communication 25 2.9% 120 2.7% 9,230 4.5% Finance & insurance 5 0.6% 45 1.0% 4,370 2.1% Property 30 3.5% 125 2.8% 6,000 2.9% Professional, scientific & 80 9.3% 380 8.6% 31,335 15.4% technical Business administration and 40 4.7% 120 2.7% 12,745 6.3% support services Public administration and 15 1.7% 120 2.7% 2,915 1.4% defence Education 15 1.7% 170 3.8% 5,505 2.7% Health 70 8.1% 135 3.0% 12,430 6.1% Arts, entertainment, recreation & 70 8.1% 255 5.7% 14,550 7.1% other services Total 860 100% 4,440 100% 203,760 100%

Source: NOMIS, UK Business Count

Figure 2.6: Business Base by Employee Size (2014)

Medium-sized (50 to 249), 1.0% Small (10 to 49), 15.1%

Micro (0 to 9), 82.3%

Source: NOMIS, 2014. No large businesses (250+ employees) identified in data at sub-regional level

Bute and Cowal has the second highest incidence (82.3%) of micro businesses in the area as well as the second lowest incidence of medium sized businesses (1%).

2.2.8 Micro Businesses

Table 2.9: Micro Business Base in Bute & Cowal (2014)

Sector %

Agriculture, forestry & fishing 19.3% Production 3.4% Construction 10.9% Wholesale, retail trade and motor trades 21% Transport & storage (inc. postal) 0.8% Accommodation & food services 14.3% Information & communication 1.7% Finance & insurance 0% Property 1.7% Professional, scientific & technical 14.3% Business administration services 4.2% Public administration and defence 0% Education 0% Health 2.5% Arts, entertainment, recreation & other services 5.9%

Source: NOMIS, 2014

The incidence of micro businesses in agriculture, forestry and fishing (19.3%) is considerably higher than that of the total business base.

The professional, scientific and technical sector (14.3%) is well represented at the micro level in Bute and Cowal, and is better represented than in the wider region (9%). However, the figure is still below the national average (18%).

2.3 Skills Profile

This section provides an in-depth review of the education and skills profile within Bute and Cowal.

2.3.1 Workforce Qualifications

Table 2.10 and Figure 2.7 provide an overview of the level of workforce qualifications in Bute and Cowal when compared to the wider local authority area and the national picture. Both show the highest level of qualification held.

Table 2.10: Highest Qualification Held by Population

Level 4 No Quals Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 and above

Cowal 26% 20% 14% 9% 31%

Bute & Dunoon 29% 24% 14% 10% 24% Cowal Isle of Bute 33% 24% 13% 8% 22% Total 29% 23% 14% 9% 26% Argyll and Bute 25% 23% 15% 9% 29% Scotland 27% 23% 14% 10% 26%

Source: Census 2011

Cowal has more residents with qualifications that are Level 4 and above (31%) than the sub-area (26%), region (29%) and country as a whole (26%).

Conversely, Bute (33%) has a higher percentage of its population with no qualifications, and lower with Level 4 or above (22%).

Figure 2.7: Highest Level of Qualification

Source: Census 2011

2.3.2 Occupational Profiles

Table 2.11, provides details of the occupations of the workforce in Bute and Cowal.

Table 2.11: Occupational Profile in Bute and Cowal

Bute & Cowal Argyll & Bute Scotland

Managers, directors and senior officials 959 11% 4,537 11% 210,819 8% Professional occupations 1,142 13% 5,833 14% 421,639 17% Associate professional technical 949 11% 5,887 14% 318,380 13% Administrative and secretarial occupations 789 9% 4,014 10% 286,144 11% Skilled trades occupations 1,496 17% 6,713 16% 315,177 13% Caring, leisure and other service occupations 1,148 13% 4,273 10% 244,508 10% Sales and customer service occupations 829 9% 2,866 7% 234,367 9% Process, plant and machine operatives 562 6% 2,766 7% 193,594 8% Elementary occupations 1,108 12% 4,906 12% 292,267 12% Total Numbers 8,982 41,795 2,516,895

Source: Census 2011

Bute and Cowal has a higher proportion of workers in skilled trades (17%) and caring (13%) than the region and the nation as a whole with a lower proportion of both professionals (13%) and associate professionals (11%).

2.3.3 School Attainment

Details of the educational attainment at individual school level are presented in the tables below. There are two secondary schools in Bute and Cowal, Rothesay Academy and Dunoon Grammar. Both schools fall slightly below the Argyll and Bute average for S5 and S6 attainment.

Table 2.12: S4 School Attainment by Year

S4 (% of S4 roll achieving award at specified SCFQ award or better)

Level 3 or better Level 4 or better Level 5 or better 10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/13 Dunoon 87 96 96 76 84 92 31 30 45 Rothesay 90 95 93 76 85 74 26 33 25 Argyll & Bute 92 95 94 79 83 81 37 42 40 Scotland 93 94 95 79 80 82 36 37 39

Source: Education Scotland, 2013

Table 2.13: S5 School Attainment by Year

S5 (% of S4 roll from previous year achieving awards at SCQF Level 6 or better)

One or More Three or more Five or more 10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/13 Dunoon 45 42 37 18 22 20 7 7 11 Rothesay 45 33 53 24 23 28 14 10 12 Argyll & Bute 49 46 53 27 25 32 Scotland 45 47 49 26 27 29

Source: Education Scotland, 2013

Table 2.14: S6 Attainment by Year

S6 (% of S4 roll from 2 years previous achieving awards at SCQF Level 6 or better)

One or More Five or more One or more at Level 7 10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/13 Dunoon 32 27 33 20 17 19 8 9 6 Rothesay 26 37 29 14 28 20 9 14 6 Argyll & Bute 58 58 54 23 27 24 16 21 15 Scotland 35 37 38 24 26 27 16 16 17

Source: Education Scotland, 2013

2.3.4 School Leaver Destinations

Bute and Cowal had more school leavers entering further education (28.9%) and training (7.7%) than both the national (28% and 6% respectively) and Argyll and Bute averages (21% and 5% respectively) – Table 2.15.

Table 2.15: School Leaver Destinations 2012/13

HE FE Training Employment Unemployed

Isle of Bute 36.2% 29.8% 8.5% 19.1% 6.4%

Bute and Cowal 37.8% 26.8% 7.3% 23.2% 4.9% Cowal Dunoon 35.9% 30.4% 7.6% 17.4% 8.7% Total 36.7% 28.9% 7.7% 19.9% 6.8% Argyll & 38% 21% 5% 28% 8% Bute Scotland 36% 28% 6% 21% 8%

Source: Education Scotland, 2013

Figure 2.8: School Leaver Destinations in Bute & Cowal, 2012/13

40% 38% 36% 36% 35%

29% 30% 28% 28%

25% 21% 21% 20% 20%

15%

10% 8% 8% 7% 7% 6% 5% 5%

0% Higher Education Further Education Training Employment Unemployed

Bute & Cowal Argyll & Bute Scotland

Source: Education Scotland, 2013

2.3.5 Further Education

Argyll College operates two learning centres in Bute and Cowal, situated in Dunoon and Rothesay – Table 2.16.

Table 2.16: FE Provision in Bute and Cowal

Campus FT Courses PT Courses

Childcare, Social Services & Art, Photography, Modern Languages, Healthcare, Admin, Food Hygiene, Psychology, Dunoon Hairdressing, Computing, Counselling, Equine, Horticulture Hospitality, Tourism, Horticulture, Rural Skills Childcare, Social Service & Modern Languages, Computing, Healthcare, Admin, Hospitality, Construction Crafts Rothesay Construction, Tourism, Fitness, Rural Skills, Equido

Source: UHI website

West College Scotland’s Greenock campus is near to ferry connections with Cowal. Education provision in Dunoon and Rothesay is generally varied but is lacking in terms of scientific and professional education.

2.4 Area Asset Audit

2.4.1 Overview

This chapter presents an asset audit for the Bute and Cowal administrative area, describing the physical and cultural assets that the area holds, and thereby identifying gaps that could constrain future growth and diversification.

The main settlements in the Bute and Cowal area are Rothesay and Dunoon, with Sandbank the other key settlement. The inhabited island of Bute is in the area.

2.4.2 Housing Profile

There are 12,977 dwellings in Bute and Cowal, amounting to 27% of the Argyll and Bute total. Figure 2.9 breaks down the number of dwellings by Council Tax band and Figure 2.10 by type of dwelling.

Figure 2.9: Dwellings by Council Tax band Figure 2.10: Dwellings by type

Source: SNS, 2013

There were 321 house sales in the administrative area in 2013, with an average selling price of £120,679.

Due to its popularity as a tourist destination, Bute and Cowal has a much higher proportion of second homes than the national and regional average – Figure 2.11.

Figure 2.11: Houses by Occupancy

100% 96% 89% 90% 84% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 11% 10% 5% 6% 4% 3% 1% 0% Scotland A&B Bute & Cowal

Vacant Second Home Occupied

Source: Census 2011

Second and holiday home ownership is higher in some settlements within the Bute and Cowal area than others – Figure 2.12.

Figure 2.12: Occupancy by Settlement/Island

Source: Census 2011, Table KS401SC. Image: Google Maps Charts may not sum to 100% due to rounding.

A higher proportion of households in Bute and Cowal live in ‘other social rented’ accommodation (22%) than the Argyll and Bute average (19%), and there is also a slightly higher incidence of private renters (13%) in the area compared with 10% at the regional level and 11% at the national level – Figure 2.13.

Figure 2.13: Household Tenure

13% Private rent 10% 11%

22% Other social rent 19% 11%

0% Local authority rent 0% 13%

64% Owned 66% 62%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70%

Bute & Cowal A&B Scotland

Source: Census 2011, Table KS402SC

Following a stock transfer in 2006, Argyll and Bute has no local authority owned housing. Argyll Community Housing Association operates across the area, while Fyne Homes also operate in Kintyre, Mid Argyll and the Bute and Cowal areas.

Table 2.17: Dwellings in key localities

Locality Dwelling % of A&B Total

Dunoon 4,302 9.3% Rothesay 2,866 6.2% Sandbank 550 1.2% Tighnabruaich 786 1.7% Isle of Bute 4,200 8.9%

Source: Census 2011, Table KS401SC

2.4.3 Education and Health

Schools

There are 2,400 school pupils in the Bute and Cowal administrative area, amounting to 23% of the school roll in Argyll and Bute. There are two secondary schools, located in Rothesay and Dunoon, and 14 primary schools. The secondary school roll declined by 22% between 2005 and 2013, considerably higher than the Argyll and Bute wide figure of 13%. As of September 2013, there was capacity to accommodate an additional 727 pupils in the secondary schools in Bute and Cowal.

Table 2.18: Secondary School Roll in Bute and Cowal

Max. Capacity % Full 2013 % Full 2010 % Full 2005

Rothesay Academy 682 49% 57% 68% Dunoon Grammar School 12,05 68% 79% 85% Bute and Cowal Total 1,887 61% 71% 79% A&B total 7,283 68% 75% 79%

Source: Education Scotland, 2013

Table 2.19: Primary School Roll in Bute and Cowal

Schools Capacity % Full 2013 % Full 2010 % Full 2005

Bute and Cowal 14 2647 47% 48% 60%

Argyll and Bute 76 11,252 49% 50% 58% Source: Education Scotland, 2013

Nurseries

The population of Bute and Cowal aged 0-4 is 907. Table 2.20 shows the number of nurseries operating in the sub-area.

Table 2.20: Number of Nurseries in Bute and Cowal

Local Nurseries Authority Voluntary Private Capacity*

Bute & Cowal 15 9 6 0 285 Argyll & Bute 71 49 11 11 1,527

Source: Argyll & Bute Council website *This figure indicates max. capacity at any given time. Some nurseries operate two sessions daily and can thus cater to (up to) twice as many children.

Health Provision

Argyll & Bute Community Health Partnership is one of the four operational areas of NHS Highland Community hospitals operate in Rothesay and Dunoon, with Accident and Emergency facilities. Figure 2.14 shows the distribution of GP practices and hospitals in the area.

Figure 2.14: NHS Highland Facilities in Bute and Cowal

Source: NHS Highland

There is lower population per dentist figure for Bute and Cowal than Argyll and Bute as a whole, although a higher number per GP – Table 2.21 and Table 2.22.

Table 2.21 Number of Dentists and Dental Practices in Bute and Cowal

Dentists Dental Practices Pop. per Dentist

Bute & Cowal 21 7 1,003 Argyll & Bute 67 26 1,314

Source: NHS Highland

Table 2.22 Number of GPs and GP Practices in Bute and Cowal

GPs GP Practices Pop. per GP

Bute & Cowal 24 8 878 Argyll & Bute 109 33 808

Source: NHS Highland

2.4.4 Business Property

Key Business Areas

We have identified three industrial estates and business parks within the Bute and Cowal sub-area: Bute Business Park in Rothesay, Kames Industrial Estate in Tighnabruaich and Sandbank Industrial Estate near Dunoon.

These are distinct or formally recognised and marketed business locations, but in reality constitute only a small proportion of the total commercial floorspace, the majority of which is located in town centre offices/retail properties and individual industrial/workshop units.

Local Plan Allocation and Policies

The new Argyll and Bute Local Development Plan was adopted in March 2015, replacing the previous plan, from 2009. This document outlines land use allocation and policies to guide future development proposals for business, residential, leisure, community, greenspace, etc.

Table 2.23 presents the site allocations for business and industry across the Bute and Cowal sub-area.

Table 2.23: Business and Industry Allocations

Location Use Class Size

Union Street, Rothesay 4,5,6 0.5 Ha Upper Sandbank 4,5,6 8.34 Ha High Road, Sandbank 4,5,6 6.00 Ha

Source: Argyll and Bute Council, Planning Department

The Main Issues Report supporting preparation of the new Local Development Plan identifies one strategic industrial business locations in the Bute and Cowal area, Sandbank Industrial Estate.

This is a large scale industrial and business estate with potential to deliver in the region of 800 jobs within a high quality environment. It is situated near the Main Town of Dunoon with good access to the strategic road, rail and ferry routes.

The Main Issues Report also identifies a number of strategic and local regeneration opportunities. The strategic opportunities are based around the main towns and key settlements within the CHORD Programme (Campbeltown, Helensburgh, Oban, Rothesay and Dunoon waterfront towns).

The local opportunities are focused around the smaller settlements and rural areas, presenting opportunities for regeneration with a focus on sites where there is existing infrastructure, community facilities and other supporting resources.

Table 2.24: Strategic Regeneration Opportunities

Strategic

 Rothesay – Town Centre and Waterfront

 Dunoon – Town Centre and Waterfront

 Ardyne – Tourism / Housing / Renewables

Source: Argyll and Bute Council, Local Development Plan 2015

Available Commercial Property

A review of the Co-Star Scottish Property Network database identifies 18 commercial properties available for sale and/or lease in January 2015, as presented in Table 2.25.

Table 2.25: Available Commercial Property, January 2015

Location Retail Industrial Office Speciality Total

Bute 4 1 1 6

Dunoon 4 3 1 1 9

Rothesay 1 1 Tighnabruaich 1 1 2

Total 10 4 2 2 18

Source: Co-Star SPN

Planning Applications and Decisions

A large volume of planning applications are made to Argyll and Bute Council on an annual basis – the majority of these are for small and/or non-contentious proposals that are decided by Planning Officers under delegated authority.

A small number of applications are decided at the Council’s Planning, Protective Services, and Licensing Committee (PPSL) – these are typically larger and more contentious applications where the Council has an interest or the proposal is a departure from the Local Plan.

Information on planning applications and decisions are available via the Argyll and Bute Council website. A review of the PPSL decisions between September 2013 and December 2014 identifies only one notable planning application decision:

 13/02527/PP – Alterations and extension, Dunoon Burgh Hall, 195 Argyll Street, Dunoon – Planning Permission Granted (Jan 2014).

2.4.5 Transport

The main transport routes in Argyll and Bute are shown in Figure 2.15.

Figure 2.15: Transport Routes in Argyll and Bute

Source: Argyll and Bute Council

Roads

The Argyll and Bute area has a total of 1,617 miles of road, with Argyll and Bute Council responsible for 1,429 miles, with the remainder – trunk roads – managed by BEAR Scotland on behalf of Transport Scotland.

The north of Cowal is connected with central Scotland by the A82 trunk road, which runs north west from Glasgow. This then connects with a series of A roads which traverse the Cowal peninsula.

Driving Time

Table 2.26 and Table 2.27 display the estimated driving time between Dunoon and a number of Scottish cities and other locations in Argyll and Bute.

Table 2.26 Driving time to Scottish cities

Glasgow Edinburgh Aberdeen Inverness

Dunoon 1 hr 7 min* 2 hr 3 min* 4 hr 13 min* 4 hr 19 min

Source: AA Routeplanner. * denotes car ferry journey from Gourock to Dunoon, taking 20 mins

Table 2.27 Driving time between key locations

Helensburgh Lochgilphead Campbeltown Oban

Dunoon 1 hr 22 min* 1 hr 42 min 2 hr 50 min 2 hrs

Source: AA Routeplanner. * denotes car ferry journey from Gourock to Dunoon, taking 20 mins

Ferries

Ferries form an important part of the transport infrastructure in Bute and Cowal, which encompasses the Isle of Bute and the Cowal peninsula, with its long coast line.

All services are operated by Caledonian MacBrayne (or a subsidiary company), which is wholly owned by the Scottish Government, with the exception of the Gourock to Dunoon car ferry, operated on a commercial basis by privately owned Western Ferries. In instances where ferries are not run by Cal Mac, this is specified:

 Tarbert (Kintyre) to Portavadie (Cowal) – 25 minute sailing operates all day and all year, with up to 12 return journeys. 62,000 passengers in 2013;

 Colintraive (Cowal) to Rhubodach (Bute) – five minute sailing operating approx. every 30 minutes, every day. 222,000 passengers in 2013;

 Wemyss Bay (Inverclyde) to Rothesay (Bute) – 35 minute sailing, connecting with regular trains to Glasgow Central. Two ferries allow this service to operate hourly, seven days a week. 677,000 passengers in 2013;

 Gourock (Inverclyde) to Dunoon (Cowal) – operated by Argyll Ferries, which shares a parent company with Caledonian MacBrayne. Two passenger vessels run every 30 minutes, with a sailing time of around 25 minutes. Operates from 6.15am until 11pm, with later sailings until 1am on Fridays and Saturdays. 360,000 passengers in year 2010/11; and

 Gourock (Inverclyde) to Dunoon (Cowal) – vehicle ferry operated by Western Ferries with up to four sailings an hour between 6am and 10pm, taking 20 minutes.

Airports

There are no airports in the Bute and Cowal administrative area.

Railways

There are no rail services in Bute and Cowal. However, railway stations are located close to the ferry terminals in both Wemyss Bay and Gourock, for onward travel from Rothesay and Dunoon.

Buses

West Coast Motors operate services in Cowal between Dunoon and Tighnabruaich, Colintraive, Portavadie and Hunter’s Quay Holiday Village. There is also a service between Inveraray and Dunoon, providing a connection with the Citylink routes to Oban and Campbeltown. West Coast Motors also run buses between the main settlements and ferry terminals on Bute.

Core Paths and Cycling

A large number of public footpaths – totally 1,167 miles – can be found across the Argyll and Bute area. A Core Paths Plan is in the process of being adopted by Argyll and Bute Council, following public consultation.

National Cycle Route 75 runs between Edinburgh and Portavadie on the west coast of the Cowal Peninsula, via Dunoon.

2.4.6 Tourism, Leisure and Culture

Overview

The Bute and Cowal area is a popular destination for visitors. There is a wide range of tourist attractions in the area, with many focused on its archaeological, historical and natural heritage.

STEAM data provided by Argyll and Bute Council shows the area had 2.24m visitors in 2013, an increase of 6.4% from 2012. Direct expenditure was calculated at £267m in 2013, from 4.72m visitor days. A total of 60% of visitors stayed overnight.3 However, given the popularity of Rothesay to day-trippers from the central belt, the percentage of overnight visitors in Bute and Cowal is likely to be lower.

The 2011 Scottish Visitor Survey reveals a number of statistics about visitors to Argyll and Bute. The average trip duration was 4.8 nights and the accommodation breakdown is shown in Figure 2.16. Figure 2.17 shows the percentage of respondents who engaged in a range of activities during their visit.

Figure 2.16: Accommodation Used by visitors to Argyll and Bute

Other, 6% Camping, 8% B&B / guest house , 28%

Self-catering, 25%

Caravan, 12%

Hotel, 21%

Source: Scotland Visitor Survey, 2011

3 STEAM Draft Trend Report for 2009-2013, Argyll and Bute Council (2015) 29

Figure 2.17: Most popular activities

Sightseeing 56% Trying local food 54% Short walk/ stroll 49% Visited a beach 43% Long walk, hike or ramble 40% Shopping 38% Visited a historic house 38% Centre based walking 35%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60%

Source: Scotland Visitor Survey, 2011

Unfortunately it is not possible to break down values below the Argyll and Bute level. However, Visit Scotland does record footfall at each of their visitor information centres across Scotland, allowing for comparison of the level of tourism in each locality. The figures for Argyll and Bute are presented in Figure 2.18.

Figure 2.18: Annual footfall at Visit Scotland Information Centres 2013/14

141,971 Oban 144,798

70,002 Rothesay 79,028

63,987 Craignure, Mull 63,521

45,443 Inveraray 49,839

36,247 Tarbert, Loch Fyne 38,287

24,688 Campbeltown 25,442

21,052 Dunoon 22,521

8,197 Tarbet, Loch Lomond 9,377

0 20,000 40,000 60,000 80,000 100,000 120,000 140,000 160,000

2013 2014

Source: Visit Scotland Marketing Opportunities, 2013

Rothesay has the second highest footfall of all visitor information centres in the local authority area. However, given its accessibility from central Scotland (and also Dunoon), it is possible that a higher number are on daytrips than elsewhere in

Argyll and Bute. Rothesay also saw a 13% increase in footfall between 2013 and 2014.

Attractions

Bute and Cowal contains a range of visitor attractions, including:

 Bute Museum;

 Rothesay Castle;

 Mount Stuart House – Rothesay;

 Quadmania – Cowal;

 Younger Botanic Garden – Cowal;

 Castle House Museum – Dunoon;

 Paddle Argyll Sea Kayak Trail (launched 2014);

 Ardkinglas Gardens – Cowal; and

 Carrick Castle – Cowal.

Leisure and Cultural Facilities

Libraries

There are public libraries in Rothesay and Dunoon.

Cinemas, Theatres and Town Halls

There are two cinemas in Bute and Cowal:

 Isle of Bute Discovery Centre Cinema, Rothesay, showing new releases and classic films. Owned by Visit Scotland; and

 Dunoon Studio Cinema, Dunoon, showing new films daily. Run by West Coast Cinemas.

Furthermore, the Screen Machine – a fold-out cinema which travels on the back of a lorry – regularly visits a number of locations in Cowal, including Tighnabruaich and Cairndow.

Many of the villages and towns across mainland Argyll and Bute and the islands have community halls, most of which are run on a voluntary basis – Figure 2.19. These play an important role in community life and host a wide array of events, sports and social clubs and meetings each week.

Figure 2.19: Community halls in Bute and Cowal

Source: Argyll & Bute Council / Google Maps

Argyll and Bute Council operates the 800 capacity Queens Hall in Dunoon, and 800 capacity Rothesay Pavilion in Bute. Dunoon Burgh Hall is run by a community trust.

Leisure Centres

There are a number of public and private leisure facilities in the area – Table 2.28.

Table 2.28: Leisure Centres in Bute and Cowal

Facility Sector Facilities

Riverside Swim and Health Local Centre, Dunoon Authority 25m pool, teaching pool, gym, café Rothesay Leisure Centre, Local Bute Authority 25m pool, gym, sauna Hunters Quay Holiday 2 x 25m pools, sauna, gym, bar. Village, near Dunoon Private Open to the public Drimsynie Estate Holiday 25m pool, gym, sauna, coffee shop. Village, Lochgoilhead Private Open to the public

Source: Argyll & Bute Council; online search

Events

There are a number of regular events:

 Loch Fyne Food Fair: Cairndow, May;

 Bute Jazz Festival: in its 28th year, takes place in May;

 Bute Agricultural Show: held on the second Wednesday in August.

 Bute Highland Games: one day event each August;

 Cowal Highland Gathering: the largest Highland Games in the world, with 23,000 visitors to annual three day event in late August; and

 Cowalfest Walking and Arts Festival: October.

2.4.7 FDI Profile

In line with the plan’s desired outcome to increase the level of inward investment in the area, it states that greater support will be provided to businesses considering relocating to Argyll and Bute, by liaising with Highlands and Islands Enterprise and Scottish Development International.

At present, foreign investment primarily relates to the food and drink industry and energy production, sectors in which many UK-owned companies are also active. However, we have been able to identity little the way of foreign investment in the Bute and Cowal area, with most businesses likely to be operating on a small scale (e.g. Camarc and BC Technology).

Argyll and Bute Council is aiming to market the area as an attractive location for screen industry productions.

2.4.8 Retail Sector

Supermarkets

There are two Co-operative food supermarkets in Rothesay, while Dunoon has both a Co-op and a Morrison’s supermarket.

Rothesay Retail Profile

There are 112 units in Rothesay town centre, of which 19 were identified as vacant in 2010. Retail businesses account for 55 units and leisure 20 units4. Recent improvements have taken place under CHORD to reverse a process of decay within the town centre, including street and shop front upgrade and repair.

Dunoon Retail Profile

There are 151 units in Dunoon town centre, of which 16 were identified as vacant in 2010. Retail businesses account for 80 units and leisure 25 units5. Recent improvements have taken place under the CHORD programme, including public realm improvements around the Queens Hall and Wooden Pier area. Dunoon has also established a Business Improvement District (BID) covering the town centre – the BID aims to invest £720,000 over its five year operating term from April 2013 to 2018.

Developers were pushing for another major supermarket to open in Dunoon in between 2010 and 2012 but this was not successful.

4 EKOS, Rothesay CHORD Report, 2010 5 EKOS, Dunoon CHORD Report, 2010 34

2.4.9 Utilities Review

Broadband

The council’s Economic Development Action Plan sets a target to achieve superfast broadband to 85% to 90% of Argyll and Bute’s population by 2020 and improved mobile phone signal quality and coverage levels throughout Argyll and Bute. Rural broadband and digital infrastructure projects across the local authority are ongoing.

OFCOM reports that as of 2013, broadband take-up in Argyll and Bute is 67.3%, with no capacity for superfast broadband6.

Poor broadband speed has been a cause of complaint in Dunoon over recent years. However, BT Openreach has stated that superfast broadband will be available through the Dunoon exchange by summer 2015.7

Mobile coverage

OFCOM report that 5.6% of premises in Argyll and Bute do not receive a reliable 2G mobile signal from any operator, while 20% do not receive 3G. There is no 2G mobile signal in 36.5% of the geographical landmass of Argyll and Bute, with 74% of the area unable to receive 3G8.

2.4.10 Community Services and Access

The Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD) ranks small areas, or datazones, against 38 different social and economic indicators, from most deprived to least deprived

In SIMD 2012, 32% of Bute and Cowal’s datazones are in the 15% most access deprived at a national level, down from 45% in in the 2009 index.

This is calculated by measuring each datazone’s access to basic services such as GP, primary school and Post Office9. The most access deprived datazone in Bute and Cowal – ranked 26th in Scotland – is the western side of the Cowal peninsula.

6 OFCOM, Fixed Broadband Map 2013, available online 7 Alan Reid MP, “Superfast broadband for Dunoon”, February 2015, available online 8 OFCOM, Mobile Services Map 2013, available online 9 Scottish Government, Scottish Index on Multiple Deprivation, 2012 35

This section details the location of a number of different amenities and services across the Bute and Cowal area:

 Job Centres: there are job centres operated by the Department for Work and Pensions in Rothesay and Dunoon;

 Police: the area is policed by the Argyll and West Dunbartonshire division of Police Scotland. There are police offices in Rothesay and Dunoon;

 Crime: in the crime domain of SIMD 2012, 6 (19%) of Bute and Cowal’s 31 datazones were among the 15% most crime deprived in Scotland. Four of these are located in Dunoon, and two in Rothesay. Argyll and Bute as a whole saw a 7% reduction in reported crime from 2012/13 to 2013/14, when there were 330 reported crimes per 10,000 population, the 8th lowest rate in Scotland. There has been a 46% drop since 2004/5, compared to a Scottish average fall of 38%10;

 Courts: a Sheriff Court is located in Dunoon, the Sheriff Court in Rothesay closed in November 2013;

 Council Offices: public service points are available in Rothesay and Dunoon. There is a main planning office in Dunoon and a satellite in Rothesay;

 Mountain Rescue: the east side of Argyll is covered by a mountain rescue team based in Arrochar;

 Fire: Argyll and Bute has a particularly high rate (per 100,000 population) of road traffic crash fire service call-outs, at more than double the national average, and flooding, at just under double the national figure11. Scottish Fire and Rescue operated stations in the Bute and Cowal area are located in Colintraive, Tighnabruaich, Rothesay, Dunoon, Strachur and Lochgoilhead; and

 Banks: Rothesay and Dunoon both have RBS, Bank of Scotland, Clydesdale Bank and TSB branches. There is also a RBS branch in Tighnabruaich.

10 Scottish Government, Recorded Crime in Scotland, 2013-14 11 Scottish Government, Fire and Rescue Statistics, Scotland, 2013-14 36

3. Oban Lorn and the Isles

3.1 Introduction

This chapter sets out an analysis of the economic and skills profile of the Oban, Lorn and the Isles administrative area.

3.2 Economic Profile

This section includes a review and profile of the following factors:

 demography;

 labour market;

 employment;

 industry output;

 key sectors; and

 business base.

3.2.1 Demography

Overview

The population of Oban, Lorn and the Isles (OLI) was 20,234 in 2013, with a higher proportion of working age people (62.5%) and children (16.4%) than the Argyll and Bute average, but lower than Scotland as a whole. Also, there are fewer people of pensionable age (21.1%) proportionally than Argyll and Bute (23.4%), but more than the national rate of 17.8% – Table 3.1.

Table 3.1: OLI Population, 2013

Pensionable Children Working age age Total No

Oban, Lorn & the Isles 16.4% 62.5% 21.1% 20,234 Argyll & Bute 15.7% 60.9% 23.4% 88,050 Scotland 17.1% 65.1% 17.8% 5,327,700

Source: Argyll & Bute Council

The OLI administrative area saw a population increase of 7% between 2001 and 2011, considerably higher than the national increase of 4%. This stands in contrast to the 2% fall in the population of Argyll and Bute over the same period – Figure 3.1.

Figure 3.1: Population Change in OLI, 2001-2011

1.08

1.06

1.04

1.02

1.00

0.98

0.96 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

Oban, Lorn & the Isles Argyll & Bute Scotland

Source: SNS

Figure 3.2: Population Trend – Children, 2001-2011

1.05

1.00

0.95

0.90

0.85

0.80

0.75

0.70 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

Oban, Lorn & the Isles Argyll & Bute Scotland

Source: SNS

Figure 3.3: Population Trend – Working Age, 2001-2011

1.08

1.06

1.04

1.02

1.00

0.98

0.96

0.94

0.92

0.90 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

Oban, Lorn & the Isles Argyll & Bute Scotland

Source: SNS

Figure 3.4: Population Trend – Pensionable Age, 2001-2011

1.25 1.20 1.15 1.10 1.05 1.00 0.95 0.90 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

Oban, Lorn & the Isles Argyll & Bute Scotland

Source: SNS

The OLI area saw an increase in its working age population of 7%, higher than the Scottish figure of 5%, over this decade. The sub-area’s decline in its child population (-8%) is at a lower rate than the rest of Argyll and Bute (-17%), although its population of those of a pensionable age (20%) is increasing at above the national (10%) and local authority (16%) averages.

3.2.2 Area Forecasts

Although population forecasts are not generally available at sub-local authority level, we have been provided with some additional information by Argyll and Bute Council. However, this should be seen as descriptive only – Table 3.2.

Table 3.2: OLI Population Projection

2012 2037 Change %

Children 3,347 3,560 213 6%

Working age 12,595 12,363 -232 -2%

Pensionable age 4,151 5,867 1,716 41%

Total 20,093 21,790 1,697 8%

Source: Argyll and Bute Council Pensionable age is 65 in 2012, rising to 68 in 2037.

This indicates that by 2037 there is set to be a significant increase in the number of those of pensionable age (41%), despite changes to the pension age. The number of children will rise more modestly (6%) and there will be a decline in the number of those of working age (-2%).

3.2.3 Settlement Profile

Table 3.3: Population Change OLI Settlements, 1991 – 2012

Change Locality Est Population 2003/12 Since 1991

1991 2003 2010 2012 Nos. % Nos. % Dunbeg 752 710 660 610 -100 -14% -142 -23%

North Connel 561 ------561 -

Oban 8,203 8,000 8,180 8,540 540 7% 337 4%

Tobermory 825 980 970 1,010 30 3% 185 18%

Source: Argyll and Bute Council

Overall, the settlements of Oban, Lorn and the Isles have seen relatively stable populations over the past 20 years, with an increase in Oban’s population more than offsetting losses in other areas.

3.2.4 Labour Market

Table 3.4, below, shows the number of people seeking out of work benefits.

Table 3.4: Claimant Count, 2004-2014

Area 2004 2014 (June)

No % No % Oban North and Lorn 97 1.6% 74 1.2% Oban South and Isles 140 2.2% 78 1.2%

Source: NOMIS

Both multi member wards within the area show claimant count rates that are reflective of the Argyll and Bute area (2%), and have seen a decline since 2004.

Table 3.5: Employment Count, 2009-2013

2009 2013 Change %

Oban, Lorn and the Isles 9,555 9,814 259 3%

Argyll and Bute 36,861 35,484 -1,377 -4%

Scotland 2,406,782 2,357,757 -49,025 -2%

Source: NOMIS

Oban, Lorn and the Isles has witnessed a 3% increase in employment which reflects the similar increase in its working age population and contrasts with the 4% fall regionally and 2% fall nationally. While the data cannot describe the quality of work being provided, the trend itself is a positive outcome.

3.2.5 Employment Profile

Table 3.6: Employment and Change (2009-2013) in OLI by 2-digit SIC

Sector Emp Change* 02 : Forestry and logging 100 03 : Fishing and aquaculture 200 08 : Other mining and quarrying 200 10 : Manufacture of food products 200 11 : Manufacture of beverages 25 : Manufacture of fabricated metal products, except machinery etc. 41 : Construction of buildings 150 42 : Civil engineering 200 43 : Specialised construction activities 300 45 : Wholesale and retail trade and repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles 100 46 : Wholesale trade, except of motor vehicles and motorcycles 300 47 : Retail trade, except of motor vehicles and motorcycles 950 -200 49 : Land transport and transport via pipelines 200 50 : Water transport 100 52 : Warehousing and support activities for transportation 200 53 : Postal and courier activities 100 55 : Accommodation 1,250 +100 56 : Food and beverage service activities 600 +200 68 : Real estate activities 200 +50 71 : Architectural and engineering activities; technical testing and analysis 250 +50 72 : Scientific research and development 200 +150 77 : Rental and leasing activities 50 78 : Employment activities 200 81 : Services to buildings and landscape activities 50 82 : Office administrative, office support and other business support activities 84 : Public administration and defence; compulsory social security 350 -200 85 : Education 750 -50 86 : Human health activities 950 87 : Residential care activities 350 -150 88 : Social work activities without accommodation 350 91 : Libraries, archives, museums and other cultural activities 50 93 : Sports activities and amusement and recreation activities 150 50 96 : Other personal service activities 100 50

Source: BRES/NOMIS, 2013. Data subject to rounding restrictions *Data relates to sub-sectors where the change is greater than 50

The OLI area has a high level of employment in accommodation, with 1,250 employees, indicative of its status as a tourist destination. There are also high levels of employment in care, representative of the ageing population.

Across Argyll and Bute, OLI is the least reliant on the public sector as a source of employment, although that was the source of its greatest job losses between 2009 and 2013, declining by 200 roles.

Other key areas of employment include retail (950 employees), construction (300 employees), and mining and quarrying (200 employees).

Table 3.7: Employment Profile 2014

Part-time Full-time % Part-time

Male 702 4,645 13.1% Oban, Lorn & the Isles Female 2,279 2,648 46.3% Total 2,981 7,293 29% Male 2,792 19,475 12.5% Argyll & Bute Female 8,982 10,546 46% Total 11,774 30,021 28.2% Male 170,237 112,5078 13.1% Scotland Female 535,380 686,200 43.8% Total 705,617 1,811,278 28%

Source: NOMIS

With 13.1% of employment in OLI part time and 46.3% full time, this is broadly in line with the national and local authority area averages, although with a marginally higher proportion of part-time employees, perhaps reflective of the high number of tourism related jobs in the area.

3.2.6 Business Base

Overview

In OLI over one fifth (22%) of businesses are involved in ‘Agriculture, forestry and fishing’, the area’s largest industry sector, followed by ‘Accommodation and food service’ and ‘Retail’.

Table 3.8, below, shows a breakdown of the business base in the administrative area.

Table 3.8: Business Base in OLI 2013

Oban, Lorn & the Isles Argyll & Bute Scotland

No. % No. % No. % Agriculture, forestry & fishing 310 22.0% 880 19.8% 17,570 8.6% Production 95 6.7% 275 6.2% 10,935 5.4% Construction 140 9.9% 370 8.3% 18,535 9.1% Motor trades 15 1.1% 95 2.1% 5,150 2.5% Wholesale 35 2.5% 135 3.0% 7,535 3.7% Retail 170 12.1% 545 12.3% 23,045 11.3% Transport & storage (inc. postal) 65 4.6% 190 4.3% 6,535 3.2% Accommodation & food services 185 13.1% 480 10.8% 15,375 7.5% Information & communication 15 1.1% 120 2.7% 9,230 4.5% Finance & insurance 5 0.4% 45 1.0% 4,370 2.1% Property 30 2.1% 125 2.8% 6,000 2.9% Professional, scientific & technical 80 5.7% 380 8.6% 31,335 15.4% Business administration and support services 55 3.9% 120 2.7% 12,745 6.3% Public administration and defence 20 1.4% 120 2.7% 2,915 1.4% Education 35 2.5% 170 3.8% 5,505 2.7% Health 65 4.6% 135 3.0% 12,430 6.1% Arts, entertainment, recreation & other services 90 6.4% 255 5.7% 14,550 7.1%

Total 1410 100% 4,440 100% 203,760 100%

Source: NOMIS, UK Business Count

Figure 3.5: Business Base by Employee Size (2014)

Small (10-49), Medium (50- 15.7% 249), 0.7%

Micro (0-9), 82.3%

Source: NOMIS, 2014. No large businesses (250+ employees) identified in data at sub-regional level

OLI is similar to the rest of Argyll and Bute in the composition of its business base, with micro businesses dominating in the area (84.1%). However, OLI has the lowest incidence of medium size businesses (0.7%) in all of Argyll and Bute and therefore suffers from the loss of scale and stability that larger businesses bring to the jobs market.

3.2.7 Micro Businesses

Table 3.9, below, shows a breakdown of the micro business base in OLI.

Table 3.9: Micro Business Base in OLI (2014)

Sector %

Agriculture, forestry & fishing 31% Production 5.9% Construction 12.8% Wholesale, retail trade and motor trades 15.5% Transport & storage (inc. postal) 3.7% Accommodation & food services 10.7% Information & communication 0.5% Finance & insurance 0% Property 1.1% Professional, scientific & technical 6.4% Business administration Services 4.8% Public administration and defence 0% Education 0% Health 2.1% Arts, entertainment, recreation & other services 5.3%

Source: NOMIS, UK Business Count 45

The micro business base is dominated by the agriculture, forestry & fishing sector although the construction industry is well represented.

3.3 Skills Profile

This section provides an in-depth review of the education and skills profile within Oban, Lorn and the Isles.

3.3.1 Workforce Qualifications

Table 3.10 and Figure 3.6 provide an overview of the level of workforce qualifications in OLI when compared to the wider local authority area and the national picture. Both show the highest level of qualification held.

Table 3.10: Highest Level of Qualification Held by Adult Population

No Level Level Level Level 4 and Quals 1 2 3 above

Oban North and Lorn 23% 22% 14% 8% 32% Oban, Lorn & the Oban South and the Isles 25% 25% 16% 8% 27% Isles Total 24% 23% 15% 8% 29% Argyll and Bute 25% 23% 15% 9% 29% Scotland 27% 23% 14% 10% 26%

Source: Census 2011

OLI has less members of the workforce without qualifications than the local authority area and the country as a whole. Oban North and Lorn has, at 32%, a higher percentage of those with Level 4 and above than the Scottish or Argyll and Bute averages.

Figure 3.6: Highest Level of Qualification Held by Adult Population

35% 29%29% 30% 27% 26% 24%25% 25% 23%23%23% 20% 15%15%14% 15% 9% 10% 10% 8% 5% 0% No Qualifications Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Level 4 and above

Oban, Lorn & the Isles Argyll & Bute Scotland

Source: Census 2011

3.3.2 Occupational Profile

Table 3.11 provides an occupational breakdown of the workforce in OLI.

Table 3.11: Occupational Profile in OLI

Oban, Lorn & the Isles Argyll & Bute Scotland

Managers, directors and senior officials 1,226 12% 4,537 11% 210,819 8% Professional occupations 1,346 13% 5,833 14% 421,639 17% Associate professional technical 1,022 10% 5,887 14% 318,380 13%

Administrative and secretarial occupations 900 9% 4,014 10% 286,144 11% Skilled trades occupations 1,911 19% 6,713 16% 315,177 13% Caring, leisure and other service occupations 1,007 10% 4,273 10% 244,508 10% Sales and customer service occupations 756 7% 2,866 7% 234,367 9%

Process, plant and machine operatives 819 8% 2,766 7% 193,594 8% Elementary occupations 1,287 13% 4,906 12% 292,267 12% Total Numbers 10,274 41,795 2,516,895

Source: Census 2011

The occupational composition of OLI is generally similar to the national and regional figures, although with a higher rate of managers, directors and senior officials (12%), a lower rate of those in professional occupations (13%) and, at 19%, a considerably higher percentage working in skilled trades.

3.3.3 School Attainment

Details of the educational attainment at individual school level is presented in the tables below.

Table 3.13: S4 Attainment by Year

S4 (% of S4 roll achieving award at specified SCFQ award or better)

Level 3 or better Level 4 or better Level 5 or better 10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/13 Tiree High 100 100 90 71 50 14 Tobermory 97 100 91 90 89 87 50 37 70 Oban High 91 95 97 78 77 73 34 44 36 Argyll & Bute 92 95 94 79 83 81 37 42 40 Scotland 93 94 95 79 80 82 36 37 39

Source: Education Scotland, 2013

Table 3.14: S5 Attainment by Year

S5 (% of S4 roll from previous year achieving awards at SCQF Level 6 or better)

One or More Three or more Five or more 10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/13 Tiree High 47 50 14 13 50 0 7 30 0 Tobermory 53 57 48 27 17 19 13 7 4 Oban High 45 44 53 27 26 31 13 12 12 Argyll & Bute 49 46 53 27 25 32 Scotland 45 47 49 26 27 29

Source: Education Scotland, 2013

Table 3.15: S6 Attainment by Year

S6 (% of S4 roll from 2 years previous achieving awards at SCQF Level 6 or better)

One or More Five or more One or more at Level 7 10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/13 Tiree High 75 33 38 20 0 25 27 0 Tobermory 58 37 43 31 23 20 31 23 17 Oban High 36 34 35 25 26 22 15 16 13 Argyll & Bute 58 58 54 23 27 24 16 21 15 Scotland 35 37 38 24 26 27 16 16 17

Source: Education Scotland, 2013

While Oban High shows relatively consistent results and is broadly in line with the Argyll and Bute average, Tobermory and Tiree are prone to much greater 48

fluctuation between each year. However, this reflects their small student population.

For instance, although the drop in those achieving three or more Highers in S5 between 2011/12 and 2012/13 at Tiree High appears dramatic (Table 3.14), it has been calculated from a base figure of just 8 and 15 S4 pupils in each instance.

3.3.4 School Leaver Destinations

There are three secondary schools in the OLI administrative area, located in Tiree, Tobermory and Oban. Table 3.12 shows school leaver destinations in 2012/13.

Table 3.12: School Leaver Destinations 2012/13

HE FE Training Employment Unemployed

Oban North 37% 17% 4% 37% 6% and Lorn OLI Oban South 28% 17% 6% 43% 6% and the Isles Total 32% 17% 5% 40% 6% Argyll and 38% 21% 5% 28% 8% Bute Scotland 36% 28% 6% 21% 8%

Source: Education Scotland, 2013

OLI school leavers, particularly – at 43% – those from Oban South and the Isles, are much more likely to go straight into employment than school leavers on a regional (28%) and national (21%) level. OLI school leavers also have slightly lower levels of unemployment, at 6%, than those regionally and nationally. However, a lower percentage of school leavers go on to higher education (32%) and further education (17%).

Figure 3.7: School Leaver Destinations 2012/13

45% 40% 40% 38% 36% 35% 32% 30% 28% 28% 25% 21% 21% 20% 17% 15% 10% 8% 8% 5% 5% 6% 6% 5% 0% Higher Further Training Employment Unemployed Education Education Oban, Lorn & the Isles Argyll & Bute Scotland

Source: Education Scotland, 2013

3.3.5 Further Education

Further education in OLI is available at the following:

 Argyll College operate across six learning centres in OLI, located in Oban, Coll, Tiree, Tobermory, Ardfern/Craignish and Fionnphort. Table 3.16 details the courses available at each centre;

 Scottish Association for Maritime Science (SAMS) is a partner of UHI – is a leading maritime research institute, based north of Oban. Two honours degree programmes are offered through SAMS, as well as postgraduate study and short courses; and

 Ballet West, Taynuilt is a small ballet school set in a country house, offering full time, residential tuition as well as summer school and outreach classes with HND and BA (Hons) courses available. Students are eligible for finance from the usual education funding bodies.

Table 3.16: Argyll & Bute College Campuses in OLI

Campus FT Courses PT Courses

Sport and Fitness, Business, Literature, English, Maths, Health and Social Care, Psychology, Cookery, Gardening, Childcare, Admin, Guitar, Equido, Make-up, Computing, Hospitality, Languages, Admin, Computing Oban Tourism, Sound Production, Horticulture, Equido, Cookery, PGDE Primary Education

Tiree Admin & IT Varies - dependent on demand Coll Varies Varies - dependent on demand Tobermory Varies Varies - dependent on demand Craignish (Ardfern) Varies Varies - dependent on demand Fionnphort Varies Varies - dependent on demand

Source: UHI website 3.4 Area Asset Audit

3.4.1 Overview

This chapter presents an asset audit for the Oban, Lorn and the Isles administrative area, describing the physical and cultural assets that the area holds, and thereby identifying gaps that could constrain future growth and diversification.

The main settlement in the OLI area is Oban, with Tobermory the other key settlement. OLI includes the inhabited islands of Mull, Tiree, Coll, Lismore, Kerrera, Ulva, Easdale, Seil, Luing and Iona.

3.4.2 Housing Profile

There are 11,928 dwellings in OLI, amounting to 23% of the Argyll and Bute total. Figure 3.8 breaks down the number of dwellings by Council Tax band and Figure 3.9 by type of dwelling.

Figure 3.8: Dwellings by Council Tax band Figure 3.9: Dwellings by type

Source: SNS, 2013

There were 276 house sales in the administrative area in 2013, with an average selling price of £165,363. This is the second highest of the four administrative areas.

Due to its popularity as a tourist destination, OLI has a much higher proportion of second homes than the national and regional average – Figure 3.10.

Figure 3.10: Houses by Occupancy

Source: Census 2011

Second homes in Argyll and Bute (those occupied for 25+ days a year) are eligible for a 10% discount on Council Tax, recognising the importance of tourism to the area. However, properties which have been vacant (those occupied for less than 25 days annually) for more than two years have double Council Tax applied, as do those which are vacant for between one and two years and are not being actively marketed for sale or let. Argyll and Bute has a vacant rate double that of the OLI administrative area.

Second and holiday home ownership is significantly higher in the islands within the OLI area – Figure 3.11.

Figure 3.11: Occupancy by Settlement/Island

Source: Census 2011, Table KS401SC. Image: Google Maps. May not tally to 100% due to rounding.

Tenure statistics are broadly similar in OLI to the regional and national figures – Figure 3.12.

Figure 3.12: Household Tenure

12% Private rent 10% 11%

18% Other social rent 19% 11%

0% Local authority rent 0% 13%

65% Owned 66% 62%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70%

OLI A&B Scotland

Source: Census 2011, Table KS402SC

Following a stock transfer in 2006, Argyll and Bute has no local authority owned housing. Argyll Community Housing Association operates across the area, while West Highland Housing Association also operates in Oban and the Inner Hebrides.

Table 3.17: Dwellings in key localities

Locality Dwellings % of A&B Total

Tobermory 571 1.2% Oban 4,091 8.6% Isle of Mull 1,736 3.7% Isle of Tiree 495 1% Isle of Coll 137 0.3% Isle of Lismore 109 0.2%

Source: Census 2011

3.4.3 Education and Health

Schools

There are 2,540 school pupils in the OLI administrative area, amounting to 24% of the school roll in Argyll and Bute. There are three secondary schools, located in Oban, Tiree and Tobermory, and 25 primary schools. The secondary school roll declined by 11% between 2005 and 2013, slightly lower than the Argyll and Bute wide figure of 13%. As of September 2013, there was capacity to accommodate an additional 329 pupils in the secondary schools in OLI.

Table 3.18: Secondary School Roll in OLI

School Max. Capacity % Full 2013 % Full 2010 % Full 2005

Oban High School 1,184 87% 97% 95% Tobermory High School 222 64% 69% 74% Tiree High School 115 18% 40% 43% OLI Total 1,521 78% 88% 88% A&B total 7,283 68% 75% 79%

Source: Scottish Government, 2014

Table 3.19: Primary School Roll in OLI

Schools Capacity % Full 2013 % Full 2010 % Full 2005

OLI 25 2,608 52% 49% 57% Argyll & Bute 76 11,252 49% 50% 58%

Source: Scottish Government, 2014

Nurseries

The population of OLI aged 0-4 is 1,026. Table 3.20 shows the number of nurseries operating in the sub-area.

Table 3.20 Number of Nurseries in OLI

Local Nurseries* Authority Voluntary Private Capacity**

OLI 23 18 3 2 419 Argyll & Bute 71 49 11 11 1,527

Source: Argyll & Bute Council website *Where nurseries operate a separate Gaelic unit, this has been merged (2) **This figure indicates max. capacity at any given time. Some nurseries operate two sessions daily and can thus cater to (up to) twice as many children.

Health Provision

Argyll & Bute Community Health Partnership is one of the four operational areas of NHS Highland. It runs one rural general hospital in Oban with a full range of services for a hospital of its size. A community hospital facility is also operated in Craignure, Mull. Figure 3.13 shows the distribution of GP practices and hospitals in the area.

Figure 3.13: NHS Highland Facilities in OLI

Source: NHS Highland

With one GP per 653 people, OLI compares favourably to Argyll and Bute as a whole, which has 808 people per GP. The number of people per dentist is similar – Table 3.21 and Table 3.22.

Table 3.21: Number of Dentists and Dental Practices in OLI

Dentists Dental Practices Pop. per Dentist

OLI 15 7 1349 Argyll & Bute 67 26 1314

Source: NHS Highland

Table 3.22: Number of GPs and GP Practices in OLI

GPs GP Practices Pop. per GP

OLI 31 10 653 Argyll & Bute 109 33 808

Source: NHS Highland

3.4.4 Business Property

Key Business Areas

We have identified three industrial estates and business parks within the OLI sub- area: Lochavullin Industrial Estate, Oban (incl. Millpark); Glenshellach Industrial Estate, Oban; Dunstaffnage Business Park, Dunbeg.

These are distinct or formally recognised and marketed business locations, but in reality constitute only a small proportion of the total commercial floorspace, the

majority of which is located in town centre offices/retail properties and individual industrial/workshop units.

The Lorn Arc TIF investment proposal will create new infrastructure that is designed to facilitate further commercial development, including establishing two new business locations at:

 Oban Airport Business Park – industrial/freight/haulage/hangarage; and

 Barcaldine Industrial Estate – general business and industry, possibly renewables/offshore facility for operation and maintenance.

Local Plan Allocation and Policies

The new Argyll and Bute Local Development Plan was adopted in March 2015, replacing the previous 2009 plan. This document outlines land use allocation and policies to guide future development proposals for business, residential, leisure, community, greenspace, etc.

Table 3.23 presents the site allocations for business and industry across the OLI sub-area.

Table 3.23: Business and Industry Allocations

Location Use Class Size

Dunstaffnage, Dunbeg 4 1.73 Ha Halfway, Dunbeg 4 5.6 Ha Glengallon Road, Oban (5 sites) 4,5,6 8.5 Ha total (from 0.6-3.79 Ha) Oban Auction Mart 5,6 3.72 Ha Lochdon – Torosay, Mull 4,5,6 6.8 Ha

Source: Argyll and Bute Council, Planning Department

The Main Issues Report supporting preparation of the new Local Development Plan identifies one strategic industrial business locations in the OLI area, Dunstaffnage Marine Science Park. This is a marine science related development located in a high quality environment, with established connections to world renowned academic and research institution and similar businesses. It is estimated to have the potential to provide up to 400 high quality jobs.

The Main Issues Report also identifies a number of strategic and local regeneration opportunities. The strategic opportunities are based around the main towns and

key settlements within the CHORD Programme (Campbeltown, Helensburgh, Oban, Rothesay and Dunoon waterfront towns).

Table 3.24: Strategic and Local Regeneration Opportunities

Strategic Local

 Oban Bay  Tobermory Baliscate  Crossapol / Airport  Scarinish Peterhead  Lochavullin – Oban

Source: Argyll and Bute Council, Main Issues Report for Local Development Plan, 2011

Available Commercial Property

A review of the Co-Star Scottish Property Network database identifies 15 commercial properties available for sale and/or lease in January 2015, as presented in Table 3.25.

Table 3.25: Available Commercial Property, January 2015

Location Retail Industrial Offices Speciality Total

Mull 1 1 Oban 11 1 1 13 Tiree 1 1 Total 12 1 2 15

Source: Co-Star SPN

Planning Applications and Decisions

 14/01602/PP – Demolition of existing building and erection of a maritime visitors facility and associated works including provision of new public realm works, Oban – Permission Granted (Aug 2014);

 13/02047/PPP – Site for erection of 16 dwelling houses, land west of Nurses House, Kilchrenan, Taynuilt – Planning Permission Granted (Dec 2013); and

 13/01379/MFF – Formation of fin fish farm, 10 No. 80m circumference cages plus installation of feed barge – temporary consent for (Etive 6) Loch Etive – Continued for Pre-Determination Local Hearing (Nov 2013).

3.4.5 Transport

The main transport routes in Argyll and Bute are shown in Figure 3.14.

Figure 3.14: Transport Routes in Argyll and Bute

Source: Argyll and Bute Council

Roads

The OLI administrative area is connected with central Scotland by the A82, which runs from Glasgow, via the western edge of Loch Lomond, to Fort William and Inverness, thus forming the main route through the western Highlands. The road skirts the edge of Argyll and Bute, connecting with the A85 at Crianlarich, which runs between Oban and Perth. The A816 connects Oban and Lochgilphead.

A new £5m bypass at Crianlarich, linking the A82 and A85, was opened in late 2014, reducing congestion where the two roads adjoin. Work was completed in May 2015 a £9m project to widen a narrow section of the A82 adjacent to Loch Lomond to two lanes, having previously operated with one lane and traffic lights, causing delays on this key route.

Driving Time

Table 3.26 and Table 3.27 display the estimated driving time between Oban and a number of Scottish cities and other locations in Argyll and Bute.

Table 3.26 Driving time to Scottish cities

Glasgow Edinburgh Aberdeen Inverness

Oban 2 hr 10 min 2 hr 43 min 4 hr 8 min 2 hr 50 min

Source: AA Routeplanner Table 3.27 Driving time to Argyll & Bute locations

Helensburgh Lochgilphead Campbeltown Dunoon

Oban 1 hr 44 min 1 hr 14 min 2 hr 21 min 2 hrs

Source: AA Routeplanner

Ferries

With more inhabited islands than any other local authority in the UK, sea lochs which intersect the region and a long coastline, ferries form an essential part of Argyll and Bute’s transport infrastructure. Ferries are particularly crucial in the OLI administrative area, with its numerous island settlements. Oban is described as the ‘Gateway to the Isles’ and is a key port for onward travel to the Inner Hebrides.

Most services are operated by Caledonian MacBrayne (Cal Mac), wholly owned by the Scottish Government, although Argyll and Bute Council support or directly run some ferries, and the Kerrera ferry is run privately. In instances where ferries are not run by Cal Mac, this is specified.

Ferry routes departing/arriving in the OLI area include:

 Oban to Craignure (Mull) – 45 minute sailing with between four and seven return sailings a day all year. 553,000 passengers in 2013;

 Fishnish (Mull) to Lochaline (Morvern, Highland) – 18 minute sailing between Mull and the remote Morvern mainland peninsula. Sailings approximately every hour, but less frequent in winter, particularly on Sundays. 109,000 passengers in 2013;

 Tobermory (Mull) to Kilchoan (Ardnamurchan, Highland) – 35 minute sailing with three or four a day during the winter, and seven in summer. On Sundays, there are five sailings from May to August, but none the rest of the year. 35,700 passengers in 2013;

 Fionnphort (Mull) to Iona – frequent ten minute sailings throughout the day until 6.15 pm, all year round. Only three sailings on Sundays from November to April. Carried 224,000 passengers in 2013;

 Oban to Lismore – four sailings Monday to Saturday, all year round, taking 55 minutes. On Sundays there are two sailings. Additional Saturday evening sailing available by request during summer. 20,000 passengers in 2013;

 Lismore to Port Appin – small passenger ferry operated by Argyll and Bute Council, taking 10 minutes runs throughout the day. Some early/late sailings will only run if requested in advance;

 Gallanach (near Oban) to Kerrera – runs daily 8am to 6pm, taking just a few minutes to cross to the island. Every half hour during summer, and slightly less frequent during winter. Operated by Kerrera Ferry Ltd, a private company;

 Oban to Coll/Tiree/Castlebay (Barra) – during winter there is a return sailing, calling at both Tiree and Coll, on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, taking 2 hours 40 mins to reach Coll and a further hour before it docks at Tiree. During summer there is return journey to both islands each day, with the Thursday sailing continuing to Barra. 52,400 passengers in 2013 on the Coll/Tiree route, with 9,900 on sailings that also went to Barra;

 Oban to Lochboisdale (South Uist, Outer Hebrides) & Castlebay (Barra, Outer Hebrides) – from November to April there are five return sailings a

week between Oban, Barra and South Uist, while in summer sailings operate daily. 58,000 passengers in 2013;

 Seil to Easdale – short crossing to Easdale Island from Seil, operated by Argyll and Bute Council. Frequent services throughout the day, taking a few minutes to cross;

 Seil to Luing – five minute crossing from the Isle of Seil to Luing Island, operated by Argyll and Bute Council. Runs throughout the day, but only on Sundays during the summer months;

 Kennacraig to Port Askaig to Colonsay to Oban – one return sailing each on Wednesdays and Saturdays, April to October. One Saturday sailing during the winter connects Port Askaig and Colonsay. Full journey takes 7.5 hours, carried 19,000 passengers in 2013; and

 Oban to Colonsay – 2 hour 20 mins sailing, with one sailing a day during summer and four a week during winter, carried 15,700 passengers in 2013.

Airports

There are three airports serving the OLI area:

 Coll: Hebridean Air Services (HAS) operate two return flights to Oban on Mondays and Wednesdays, taking 30 minutes. Additionally, the morning flight makes a stop-over on Tiree. There are also term time flights on Saturdays and Sundays to Oban, allowing school pupils to travel home at the weekends;

 Tiree: HAS operates two 30 minute return flights on Mondays and Wednesdays, with the afternoon flight making a stopover in Coll. Additionally, FlyBe/Loganair operate a daily return flight to Glasgow, Monday to Saturday. Served 8000 passengers in 2013; and

 Oban (Connel): Oban Airport is situated five miles north-east of the town, near the village of North Connel. HAS operates scheduled flights to Coll/ Tiree and Islay/Colonsay. Serves around 3,000 passengers a year.

All of the airports in Argyll and Bute are public assets. Argyll and Bute Council operates Oban and Coll airports, and the Scottish Government owned Highlands and Islands Airports Limited runs Tiree airport.

Railways

The West Highland Line runs between Mallaig and Glasgow, with a line to Oban branching off at Crianlarich.

On weekdays, Scotrail operate six return services between Glasgow Queen Street and Oban, taking just over three hours. Five services operate on Saturdays and two on Sunday. The number of services on weekdays was doubled in May 2014, from three to six, operating year round. Around 130,000 entries and exits were made through Oban station in the 2013/14 financial year, up 7,000 on the previous year.

Data since the number of services was increased is not yet available from the Office of Rail Regulation, but has likely seen a considerable rise.

Buses

Long haul services are operated by Scottish Citylink/West Coast Motors. Service 976 operates from Oban to Glasgow via Inveraray, Tarbet and Dumbarton, with six services a day in each direction, taking just under 3 hours. Service 918 runs from Oban to Fort William via Ballachulish, with three services a day in each direction, taking 1 hour and 30 minutes. In Fort William, a connecting coach goes to Inverness, taking an additional two hours.

The primary provider of local bus services in Argyll and Bute is Campbeltown based West Coast Motors, operating routes across the region. Individual bus networks cover the Oban area and Mull.

Core Paths and Cycling

National Cycle Route 78, the ‘Caledonia Way’, runs between Fort William and Campbeltown via Oban, and is mostly road based. The islands within this sub-area area also popular with cyclists.

3.4.6 Tourism, Leisure and Culture

Overview

The OLI area is a popular destination for visitors, with 13% of its workforce employed in accommodation and food services alone. There is a wide range of tourist attractions in the area, with many focused on its archaeological, historical and natural heritage.

The 2011 Scottish Visitor Survey reveals a number of statistics about visitors to Argyll and Bute. The average trip duration was 4.8 nights and the accommodation breakdown is shown in Figure 3.15. Figure 3.16 shows the percentage of respondents who engaged in a range of activities during their visit.

Figure 3.15: Accommodation Used by visitors to Argyll and Bute

Other, 6%

Camping, 8% B&B / guest house , 28%

Self-catering, 25%

Caravan, 12%

Hotel, 21%

Source: Scotland Visitor Survey, 2011

12 STEAM Draft Trend Report for 2009-2013, Argyll and Bute Council (2015) 66

Figure 3.16: Most popular activities

Sightseeing 56% Trying local food 54% Short walk/ stroll 49% Visited a beach 43% Long walk, hike or ramble 40% Shopping 38% Visited a historic house 38% Centre based walking 35%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60%

Source: Scotland Visitor Survey, 2011

Unfortunately it is not possible to break down these numbers any further within the Argyll and Bute area. However, Visit Scotland does record footfall at each of their visitor information centres across Scotland, allowing for comparison of the level of tourism in each locality. The figures for Argyll and Bute are given in Figure 3.17.

Figure 3.17: Annual footfall at Visit Scotland Information Centres 2013/14

141,971 Oban 144,798

70,002 Rothesay 79,028

63,987 Craignure, Mull 63,521

45,443 Inveraray 49,839

36,247 Tarbert, Loch Fyne 38,287

24,688 Campbeltown 25,442

21,052 Dunoon 22,521

8,197 Tarbet, Loch Lomond 9,377

0 40,000 80,000 120,000 160,000

2013 2014

Source: Visit Scotland Marketing Opportunities, 2013 and 2014

These figures indicate that the OLI area receives more tourists each year than other areas of Argyll and Bute. The high number of visitors in Oban is most likely due to its transport links and role as ‘gateway to the isles’, with footfall generated from those passing through on their way to islands such as Mull.

The ONS releases data on the top 50 destinations in the UK each year. Oban was last included in 2010, when 80,000 visitors stayed a total of 255,000 nights over the course of the year, spending £16 million13.

Attractions

The OLI area contains the following visitor attractions:

 Cruachan Power Station;

 Dunstaffnage Castle;

 Dunollie Castle;

 Ocean Explorer Centre – Oban;

 Oban Sealife Centre;

 Oban Distillery;

 Oban War and Peace Museum;

 Easdale Island Folk Museum;

 Mull Museum;

 Tobermory Marine Exhibition;

 Duart Castle – Mull;

 An Iodhlann – Tiree Historical Centre;

 Iona Abbey; and

 Isle of Staffa (boat trips).

The Paddle Argyll Sea Kayak Trail runs for 150km between Helensburgh and Ganavan near Oban. This was launched in 2014 with a dedicated website.

13 ONS, Travel Trends report, 2010 68

Leisure and Cultural Facilities

Libraries

There is a library situated in Oban, while Mull has a mobile library van, and an island lending service exists on Tiree, Coll, Iona and Lismore. The island service operates through a named contact or council facility.

Cinemas, Theatres and Town Halls

The Phoenix Cinema in Oban is a community run facility showing new releases. Furthermore, the Screen Machine – a fold-out cinema which travels on the back of a lorry – regularly visits a number of locations in the area including Mull, Iona and Tiree.

Many of the villages and towns across mainland Argyll and Bute and the islands have community halls, most of which are run on a voluntary basis – Figure 3.18. These play an important role in community life and host a wide array of events, sports and social clubs and meetings each week.

Figure 3.18: Community halls in OLI

Source: Argyll & Bute Council. Map: Google Maps

Argyll and Bute Council operates Corran Halls in Oban, with a 650 capacity main hall, 115 seater smaller theatre and meeting rooms. Also of note is Comar on Mull, a charitable trust which incorporates the An Tobar and Druimfin venues, forming the only multi-disciplinary arts centre in the area. A private ballet school, Ballet West, is also located in Taynuilt with a regular programme of performances.

Leisure Centres

Atlantis Leisure, a social enterprise and registered charity, operates a leisure centre in Oban, with a 25m pool, sports hall, five tennis courts, dance studio, 40 space gym and café. 69

Events

The OLI area attracts a large number of visitors to special events, many of which are held on an annual basis. This includes:

 Highland Games: Lorne (Oban), Mull, Taynuilt, Argyllshire Gathering (Oban);

 Tiree Wave Classic: UK’s premier windsurfing competition, each October;

 West Highland Yachting Week: across Argyll and Bute, August;

 Tunnock’s Mull Rally: car rally event each October; and

 Highlands & Islands Music & Dance Festival: annual event in Oban, May.

3.4.7 FDI Profile

Argyll and Bute Council’s Economic Development Action Plan (2013-18) has been developed to focus the council’s resources on development activities that have the greatest beneficial impact towards sustainable economic growth. In line with the plan’s desired outcome to increase the level on inward investment in the area, it states that greater support will be provided to businesses considering relocating to Argyll and Bute, by liaising with Highlands and Islands Enterprise and Scottish Development International. At present, foreign investment primarily relates to the food and drink industry and energy production, sectors in which many UK-owned companies are also active.

Argyll and Bute Council is aiming to market the area as an attractive location for screen industry productions.

Foreign owned companies operating in OLI include Scottish Power (Iberdrola), RWE nPower, Diageo (Oban Distillery) and Marine Harvest (fish farms).

3.4.8 Retail Sector

Supermarkets

There are Co-operative Food stores in Scaranish (Tiree) and Tobermory. Oban is well served by supermarkets with a Tesco, Lidl and Aldi.

Oban Retail Profile

Oban has 239 units in its town centre, 19 of which are vacant. Retail businesses account for 130 units and leisure 46 units14. The Co-op closed their long-standing Oban store in 2014, with the loss of 38 jobs. The building has been purchased by Lidl which intends to demolish and replace it with a new energy efficient supermarket.

Improvements are taking place under the CHORD programme, including public realm works along the waterfront and the pedestrianisation of Stafford Street.

3.4.9 Utilities Review

Broadband

OFCOM reports that as of 2013, broadband take-up in Argyll and Bute is 67.3%, with no capacity for superfast broadband15.

Mobile coverage

A £165,000 pilot project, funded by the Scottish Government and supported by local beneficiaries, a landowner and Vodafone, saw Coll become the first Scottish island to receive 4G mobile coverage, in early 2015.

14 EKOS, Oban CHORD Report, 2010 15 OFCOM, Fixed Broadband Map 2013, available online 16 OFCOM, Mobile Services Map 2013, available online 71

Tiree, Seil and Luing are also set to benefit from the Vodafone Rural Open Sure Signal Programme, which operates as a small scale mast.

3.4.10 Community Services and Access

The Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD) ranks small areas, or datazones, against 38 different social and economic indicators, from most deprived to least deprived.

In SIMD 2012, 50% of Oban, Lorn and the Isles’ datazones are in the 15% most access deprived at a national level, down from 69% in in the 2009 index. This is calculated by measuring each datazone’s access to basic services such as GP, primary school and Post Office17. The first (Coll and Tiree) and third (east Mull) most access deprived datazones in the whole of Scotland are found within this administrative area.

This section details the location of a number of different amenities and services across the OLI area:

 Job Centres: there is a job centre operated by the Department for Work and Pensions in Oban;

 Police: the area is policed by the Argyll and West Dunbartonshire division of Police Scotland. There is a police office in Oban. There are also smaller unstaffed police offices, including on Mull;

 Crime: in the crime domain of SIMD 2012, 3 (12%) of OLI’s 26 datazones were among the 15% most crime deprived in Scotland. All three of these are located in the intermediate zone of Oban South. Argyll and Bute as a whole saw a 7% reduction in reported crime from 2012/13 to 2013/14, when there were 330 reported crimes per 10,000 population, the 8th lowest rate in Scotland. There has been a 46% drop since 2004/5, compared to a Scottish average fall of 38%18;

 Courts: a Sheriff Court is located in Oban;

 Council Offices: public service points are available in Oban, Tobermory and Tiree. There is also a planning office in Oban;

17 Scottish Government, Scottish Index on Multiple Deprivation, 2012 18 Scottish Government, Recorded Crime in Scotland, 2013-14 72

 Mountain Rescue: a team based in Oban covers the entire western side of Argyll and Bute, with the Arrochar team covering the east and Loch Lomond;

 Fire: Argyll and Bute has a particularly high rate (per 100,000 population) of road traffic crash fire service call-outs, at more than double the national average, and flooding, at just under double the national figure19. Scottish Fire and Rescue operates stations in the OLI area in Crianlarich, Dalmally, Bridge of Orchy, Kerrera, Oban, Lismore, Appin, Seil, Luing, Craignure, Kimelford, Tobermory, Salen, Bunessan, Coll, Tiree and Iona; and

 Banks: Oban has TSB, RBS, Bank of Scotland, Clydesdale and Nationwide branches. RBS also have a branch on Tiree, while there is a Clydesdale Bank in Tobermory. 4. Helensburgh and Lomond

4.1 Introduction

This chapter sets out an analysis of the economic and skills profile of the Helensburgh and Lomond administrative area.

4.2 Economic Profile

This section includes a review and profile of the following factors:

 demography;

 labour market;

 employment;

 industry output;

 key sectors; and

 business base.

19 Scottish Government, Fire and Rescue Statistics, Scotland, 2013-14 73

4.2.1 Population

Overview

The population of Helensburgh and Lomond was 26,170 in 2013, with a slightly higher proportion of working age people (63.3%) than Argyll and Bute (60.9%) as a whole, but lower than the Scottish average of 65.1%. Also, there are fewer people of pensionable age (20.3%) proportionally than Argyll and Bute (23.4%), but more than the national rate (17.8%) – Table 4.1.

Table 4.1: Helensburgh & Lomond Population, 2013

Total Working age Pensionable population Children (%) (%) age (%)

Helensburgh & Lomond 26,170 16.4% 63.3% 20.3% Argyll & Bute 88,050 15.7% 60.9% 23.4% Scotland 5,327,700 17.1% 65.1% 17.8%

Source: Scottish Neighbourhood Statistics (SNS)

Helensburgh and Lomond has seen a fall in its population since 2001, with the decline beginning in 2003. This 6.8% fall has been much steeper than the population drop witnessed in Argyll and Bute (-2%), and this stands in contrast to the national figure, which increased 4% over the decade to 2011. Note that the increases from 2010 are, at least in part, due to the change in data source from estimates to census data – Figure 4.1.

Figure 4.1: Population Change in Helensburgh & Lomond, 2001-2011

1.04

1.02

1.00

0.98

0.96

0.94

0.92

0.90 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

Helensburgh and Lomond Argyll & Bute Scotland

Source: Scottish Neighbourhood Statistics (SNS)

Figure 4.2: Population Trend – Children, 2001-2011

1.05

1.00

0.95

0.90

0.85

0.80

0.75

0.70 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

Helensburgh & Lomond Argyll & Bute Scotland

Source: SNS

Figure 4.3: Population Trend – Working Age, 2001-2011

1.05

1.00

0.95

0.90

0.85

0.80 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

Helensburgh & Lomond Argyll & Bute Scotland

Source: SNS

Figure 4.4: Population Trend – Pensionable Age, 2001-2011

1.25

1.20

1.15

1.10

1.05

1.00

0.95

0.90 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

Helensburgh & Lomond Argyll & Bute Scotland

Source: SNS

In comparison with the wider Argyll and Bute and Scotland as a whole, Helensburgh and Lomond is witnessing a larger increase of people of a pensionable age (19%) and a greater decrease in populations of children (-18%) and working age individuals (-11%).

4.2.2 Area Forecasts

Although population forecasts are not generally given at sub-local authority level, we have been provided with some additional information by Argyll and Bute Council. However, this should be seen as descriptive only – Table 4.2.

Table 4.2: Helensburgh & Lomond Population Projection

2012 2037 Change %

Children 4,389 3,201 -1,188 -27%

Working age 15,383 11,594 -3,789 -25%

Pensionable age 5,169 5,941 772 15%

Total 24,941 20,736 -4,205 -17%

Source: Argyll and Bute Council Pensionable age is 65 in 2012, rising to 68 in 2037.

Helensburgh and Lomond, by these projections, is predicted to see a large decrease in children (-27%) and adults of working age (-25%) and a considerable rise in its population of pensionable age (15%). 77

Table 4.3: Population Change in Helensburgh & Lomond Localities

Locality Est Population

% % Change Change Change 2003- Since since 1991 2003 2010 2012 2003/12 12 1991 1991

Cardross 1,958 1,920 2,110 2,130 210 11% 172 8%

Garelochhead 1,298 1,310 2,610 2,110 800 61% 812 38%

Helensburgh 15,852 14,510 15,430 15,590 1,080 7% -262 -2%

Kilcreggan 1,586 1,320 1,340 1,290 -30 -2% -296 -23%

Source: Argyll and Bute Council

4.2.3 Labour Market

Table 4.4 shows the number of people seeking out of work benefits in the area.

Table 4.4: Claimant Count, 2004-2014

Area 2004 2014 (June)

No % No % Lomond North 103 1.5% 91 1.7% Helensburgh Central 175 2.9% 140 2.5% Helensburgh/Lomond South 70 1.4% 46 1%

Source: NOMIS

While Helensburgh Central has the highest unemployment rate in Helensburgh and Lomond, the administrative area performs favourably in comparison to both the rest of Argyll and Bute (2%) as well as Scotland (3.4%). With good public transport connections (via rail and bus) the accessibility of the jobs market in the greater Glasgow area gives residents good access to employment opportunities.

Table 4.5: Employment Count, 2009-2013

2009 2013 Change %

Helensburgh and Lomond 9,535 9,688 153 2% Argyll and Bute 36,861 35,484 -1,377 -4% Scotland 2,406,782 2,357,757 -49,025 -2%

Source: NOMIS

Despite witnessing a small decrease in the size of its working age population between 2009 and 2013, Helensburgh and Lomond has undergone a 2% increase in employment, contrasting with the negative trends regionally and nationally. While the data cannot describe the quality of work available, the trend itself is a positive outcome.

4.2.4 Employment Profile

Table 4.6: Employment (Change 2009/13) in Helensburgh & Lomond by 2-digit SIC

Change, Sector Employment 2009-2013*

41 : Construction of buildings 100 42 : Civil engineering 100 43 : Specialised construction activities 100 45 : Wholesale and retail trade and repair of motor vehicles and 200 motorcycles 46 : Wholesale trade, except of motor vehicles and motorcycles 47 : Retail trade, except of motor vehicles and motorcycles 550 -100 49 : Land transport and transport via pipelines 100 50 : Water transport 52 : Warehousing and support activities for transportation 100 53 : Postal and courier activities 55 : Accommodation 1,100 +750 56 : Food and beverage service activities 600 +50 68 : Real estate activities 100 -50

71 : Architectural and engineering activities; technical testing etc. 250 +100

72 : Scientific research and development 77 : Rental and leasing activities 150 78 : Employment activities 50 81 : Services to buildings and landscape activities 1,600 100

82 : Office administrative, office support and business support

84 : Public administration and defence; compulsory social security 1,700 -600

85 : Education 700 -100 86 : Human health activities 550 87 : Residential care activities 200 +50 88 : Social work activities without accommodation 300

91 : Libraries, archives, museums and other cultural activities 100

93 : Sports activities and amusement and recreation activities 350

96 : Other personal service activities 100 +50

Source: BRES/NOMIS, 2013. Data subject to rounding restrictions *Data relates to sub-sectors where the change is greater than 50

Like most of the region, Helensburgh and Lomond’s largest employment sector is public sector provision (1,700 employees), while services to buildings and landscapes comes a close second (1,600). Employment in accommodation is also well represented (1,100).

The greatest job losses between 2009 and 2013 were in the public sector. However, the area did see a 78% increase in accommodation job.

Table 4.7: Employment Profile

Part-time Full-time % Part-time

Male 755 6,206 10.9% Female 2,443 2,986 45% Helensburgh & Lomond Total 3,198 9,192 25.8% Male 2,792 19,475 12.5% Female 8,982 10,546 46% Argyll & Bute Total 11,774 30,021 28.2% Male 170,237 112,5078 13.1% Female 535,380 686,200 43.8% Scotland Total 705,617 1,811,278 28%

Source: NOMIS, 2013

Helensburgh and Lomond has a marginally higher incidence of part time female employees (45%) than Scotland in general (43.8%), but is still lower than the Argyll and Bute average (46%). With total part-time employment in Helensburgh and Lomond coming to 25.8%, this is lower than both Argyll and Bute (28.2%) and Scotland (28%).

4.2.5 Residence Based Employment

Employment in the Helensburgh and Lomond areas is strongly impacted upon by the proximity to Glasgow.

Tables 4.8 and 4.9 below show the difference between workplace and residence employment and the distance to work travelled.

Table 4.8: Distance Travelled to Work from Helensburgh and Lomond

Distance worked from home Number

Work mainly at or from home 1,547

Less than 2km 2,109

2km to less than 5km 998

5km to less than 10km 1,697

10km to less than 20km 1,651

20km to less than 30km 930

30km to less than 40km 1,109

40km to less than 60km 330

60km and over 519

Other 1,207

Total 12,097

Source: Census 2011 (Table QS703SC)

Table 4.9: Residence and Workplace Based Employment in Helensburgh and Lomond

Employment Sector Residence Workplace Based Based A. Agriculture, forestry and fishing 144 0 B. Mining and quarrying 50 56 C. Manufacturing 549 199 D. Electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply 57 394 E. Water supply, sewerage, waste management etc. 54 231 F. Construction 765 72 G. Wholesale and retail trade, repair of motor vehicles and 1,212 651 motorcycles H. Transport and storage 523 190 I. Accommodation and food service activities 812 721 J. Information and communication 302 58 K. Financial and insurance activities 318 72 L. Real estate activities 144 131 M. Professional, scientific and technical activities 616 413 N. Administrative and support service activities 764 1,848 O. Public administration and defence, compulsory social sec 2,863 2,024 P. Education 1,020 732 Q. Human health and social work activities 1,657 967 R, S, T, U. Other 540 958 Total 12,390 9,720 Source: Census 2011 (Table KS605SC) and BRES 2011

4.2.6 Business Base

4.2.7 Overview

In Helensburgh and Lomond the largest number of businesses are involved in ‘Professional, scientific and technical’ activities (19.3%), followed by ‘Retail’ (14.3%) and ‘Accommodation and food service’ (10.7%). The Clyde Naval Base is close to Helensburgh and is the biggest single site employer in Scotland, with 6,500 civilians and service personnel working there20. Table 4.10 presents a breakdown of the business base in Helensburgh and Lomond.

Table 4.10: Business Base in Helensburgh & Lomond 2014

H&L Argyll & Bute Scotland

No. % No. % No. % Agri, forestry & fishing 30 4.3% 880 19.8% 17,570 8.6% Production 15 2.1% 275 6.2% 10,935 5.4% Construction 65 9.3% 370 8.3% 18,535 9.1% Motor trades 20 2.9% 95 2.1% 5,150 2.5% Wholesale 15 2.1% 135 3.0% 7,535 3.7% Retail 100 14.3% 545 12.3% 23,045 11.3% Transport & storage 0 0.0% 190 4.3% 6,535 3.2% Accommodation & food 75 10.7% 480 10.8% 15,375 7.5% Information & comms 40 5.7% 120 2.7% 9,230 4.5% Finance & insurance 5 0.7% 45 1.0% 4,370 2.1% Property 20 2.9% 125 2.8% 6,000 2.9% Prof, scientific & tech 135 19.3% 380 8.6% 31,335 15.4% Business administration 50 7.1% 120 2.7% 12,745 6.3% Public admin & defence 15 2.1% 120 2.7% 2,915 1.4% Education 10 1.4% 170 3.8% 5,505 2.7% Health 40 5.7% 135 3.0% 12,430 6.1% Arts, entertainment, etc. 65 9.3% 255 5.7% 14,550 7.1% Total 700 100% 4,440 100% 203,760 100%

Source: NOMIS, UK Business Count

Helensburgh and Lomond has a higher representation of professional and scientific businesses, retail businesses and arts and entertainment businesses in its business base than both Argyll and Bute and Scotland as a whole.

20 Built Environment Forums Scotland, Helensburgh Report (2013), available online 83

Professional and scientific businesses generate above average GVA and help to strengthen the local economy.

Figure 4.5: Business Base by Employee Size (2014)

Medium-sized Small (10 to 49) (50 to 249) 16% 1%

Micro (0 to 9) 83%

Source: NOMIS. No large businesses (250+ employees) identified in data at sub-regional level

Helensburgh and Lomond has a proportionately higher representation of small businesses (16%) than any other sub-area of Argyll and Bute. It also has the second highest incidence of medium sized businesses (1%).

This means the business base in this district has the lowest proportion of micro- businesses in Argyll and Bute (82%).

4.2.8 Micro Businesses

Table 4.11 shows a breakdown of the micro business base in Helensburgh and Lomond, with a high incidence of both retail (24%) and professional, scientific and technical businesses (25%).

Table 4.11: Micro Business Base in Helensburgh and Lomond (2014)

Sector %

Agriculture, forestry & fishing 6.3% Production 2.1% Construction 9.4% Wholesale, retail trade and motor trades 24% Transport & storage (inc. postal) 0% Accommodation & food services 8.3% Information & communication 9.4% Finance & insurance 0% Property 2.1% Professional, scientific & technical 25.0% Business administration Services 6.3% Public administration and defence 0% Education 0% Health 2.1% Arts, entertainment, recreation & other services 5.2%

Source: NOMIS, 2013 4.3 Skills Profile

This section provides an in-depth review of the education and skills profile within Helensburgh and Lomond.

4.3.1 Workforce Qualifications

Table 4.12 and Figure 4.6 provide an overview of the level of workforce qualifications in Helensburgh and Lomond when compared to the wider local authority area and the national picture.

Both show the highest level of qualification held.

Table 4.12: Highest Level of Qualification Held by Adult Population

Level 4 & No Quals Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 above

Helensburgh & 14% 22% 18% 12% 34% Lomond South Helensburgh Helensburgh 21% 19% 14% 10% 36% & Lomond Central Lomond North 19% 25% 15% 10% 30% Total 18% 22% 16% 10% 34% Argyll & Bute 25% 23% 15% 9% 29% Scotland 27% 23% 14% 10% 26%

Source: Census 2011

Each multi-member ward in the area has a higher proportion of people with Level 4 qualifications and above, with a sub-area figure of 34%, than both the full council area (29%) and Scotland (26%), as well as a lower incidence of those with no qualifications. Helensburgh and Lomond South has a rate of those with no qualifications of just 14%, almost half that of Scotland as a whole (26%).

Figure 4.6: Highest Level of Qualification Held by Adult Population

40% 34% 35% 29% 27% 30% 25% 26% 25% 22%23%23% 18% 20% 16% 15%14% 15% 10% 9% 10% 10% 5% 0% No Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Level 4 and Qualifications above

Helensburgh & Lomond Argyll & Bute Scotland

Source: Census 2011

4.3.2 Occupational Profile

Table 4.13 provides an occupational breakdown of the workforce in Helensburgh and Lomond.

Table 4.13: Occupational Profile in Helensburgh & Lomond

Helensburgh & Lomond Argyll & Bute Scotland

Managers, directors and senior officials 1,313 11% 4,537 11% 210,819 8% Professional occupations 2,015 16% 5,833 14% 421,639 17% Associate professional technical 2,983 24% 5,887 14% 318,380 13% Administrative and secretarial occupations 1,246 10% 4,014 10% 286,144 11% Skilled trades occupations 1,312 11% 6,713 16% 315,177 13% Caring, leisure and other service occupations 1,114 9% 4,273 10% 244,508 10% Sales and customer service occupations 712 6% 2,866 7% 234,367 9% Process, plant and machine operatives 541 4% 2,766 7% 193,594 8% Elementary occupations 1,154 9% 4,906 12% 292,267 12% Total Numbers 12,390 41,795 2,516,895

Source: Census 2011

Helensburgh and Lomond has a greater proportion of professional (16%) and associate professional (24%) jobs but fewer elementary roles (9%) than both Argyll and Bute and Scotland as a whole.

4.3.3 School Attainment

Details of the educational attainment obtained by pupils at Hermitage Academy are presented in the tables below. The percentage of pupils at the school obtaining three or more Highers in S5 and five or more Highers by S6 is consistently higher than the average for both the local authority and Scotland.

Table 4.16: S4 Attainment by Year

S4 (% of S4 roll achieving award at specified SCFQ award or better)

Level 3 or better Level 4 or better Level 5 or better 10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/13 Hermitage 92 94 91 76 87 83 43 48 42 Argyll & Bute 92 95 94 79 83 81 37 42 40 Scotland 93 94 95 79 80 82 36 37 39

Source: Education Scotland, 2013

Table 4.17: S5 Attainment by Year

S5 (% of S4 roll from previous year achieving awards at SCQF Level 6 or better)

One or More Three or more Five or more 10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/13 Hermitage 57 53 67 32 28 39 16 14 15 Argyll & Bute 49 46 53 27 25 32 Scotland 45 47 49 26 27 29

Source: Education Scotland, 2013

Table 4.18: S6 Attainment by Year

S6 (% of S4 roll from 2 years previous achieving awards at SCQF Level 6 or better)

One or More Five or more One or more at Level 7

10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/13 Hermitage 42 48 43 24 33 28 29 33 25 Argyll & Bute 58 58 54 23 27 24 16 21 15 Scotland 35 37 38 24 26 27 16 16 17

Source: Education Scotland, 2013

Across Argyll and Bute, Hermitage Academy is consistently the highest achieving secondary school in the local authority for S6 attainment.

4.3.4 School Leaver Destinations

There is one local authority operated secondary school in Helensburgh and Lomond, Hermitage Academy in Helensburgh. Table 4.14 shows school leaver destinations in 2012/13.

Table 4.14: School Leaver Destinations 2012/13

Further Higher Educatio Education n Training Employment Unemployed

Helensburgh & Lomond 41% 26% 4% 17% 12%

Argyll & Bute 38% 21% 5% 28% 8%

Scotland 36% 28% 6% 21% 8%

Source: Education Scotland. Excludes private schools.

In 2012/13, a greater percentage of school leavers from Helensburgh and Lomond entered higher education than both the national and regional average (Table 4.15). However, the proportion of school leavers who became unemployed is considerably higher in the sub-area than the Scottish and Argyll and Bute average (Figure 4.7). These outcomes hint at an inequality in educational attainment in the district.

Table 4.15: School Leaver Destinations in Helensburgh & Lomond, 2012/13

Total Number of School Employ-

leavers HE FE Training ment Unemployed

Helensburgh and Lomond South 73 37% 24.7% 0% 26% 12.3% Helensburgh Central 78 44.9% 30.8% 3.8% 9% 11.5% Lomond North 62 41.9% 22.6% 8.1% 16.1% 11.3% Total 213 41.3% 26.3% 3.7% 16.9% 11.7%

Source: Education Scotland. Excludes private schools.

Figure 4.7: School Leaver Destinations in Helensburgh & Lomond, 2012/13

45% 41% 40% 38% 36% 35%

30% 28% 28% 26% 25% 21% 21%

20% 17%

15% 12% 10% 8% 8% 6% 5% 4% 5%

0% Higher Further Training Employment Unemployed Education Education Helensburgh and Lomond Argyll & Bute Scotland

Source: Education Scotland, 2013

4.3.5 Further Education

There is limited provision of further education in Helensburgh and Lomond. Argyll College, part of the University of the Highlands and Islands, operates a learning centre within Helensburgh library. Some full-time and part-time/evening courses are available, although generally dependent on demand. However, Helensburgh enjoys good train connections with central Scotland, notably Glasgow and the town is also a short distance from the Clydebank campus of West College Scotland.

4.4 Area Asset Audit

4.4.1 Overview

This chapter presents an asset audit for the Helensburgh and Lomond administrative area, describing the physical and cultural assets that the area holds, and thereby identifying gaps that could constrain future growth and diversification.

The main settlement in the Helensburgh and Lomond area is Helensburgh, with Cardross, Kilcreggan, Rosneath and Garelochhead the other key settlements.

4.4.2 Housing Profile

There are 10,712 dwellings in Helensburgh and Lomond, amounting to 25% of the Argyll and Bute total. Figure 4.8 breaks down the number of dwellings by Council Tax band and Figure 4.9 by type of dwelling.

Figure 4.8: Dwellings by Council Tax band Figure 4.9: Dwellings by type

Band Terraced, 17% F/G/H Flats, 33% Band , 28% A/B/C, 42%

Band D/E, 30% Detached/semi-detached, 49% Source: SNS, 2013

There were 351 house sales in the administrative area in 2013, with an average selling price of £188,693, considerably higher than any of the other administrative areas.

Helensburgh and Lomond has a lower rate of second/holiday homes (5%) than Argyll and Bute as a whole (6%), although still a higher percentage than the Scottish average (1%) – Figure 4.10.

Figure 4.10: Houses by Occupancy

96% 100% 93% 89% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 5% 6% 5% 10% 3% 1% 2% 0% Scotland A&B Helensburgh & Lomond

Vacant Second home Occupied

Source: Census 2011, Table KS401SC

A slightly higher proportion of households in Bute and Cowal live in privately rented dwellings (12%) than the Scottish (11%) or local authority average (10%) and the rate of home ownership is also higher. Correspondingly, less people live in socially rented housing – Figure 4.11.

Figure 4.11: Household Tenure

12% Private rent 10% 11%

13% Other social rent 19% 11%

0% Local authority rent 0% 13%

74% Owned 66% 62%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80%

Helensburgh & Lomond A&B Scotland

Source: Census 2011, Table KS402SC

Following a stock transfer in 2006, Argyll and Bute has no local authority owned housing. Argyll Community Housing Association operates across the area, while Dunbritton Housing Association also operate in Helensburgh and Lomond.

Helensburgh contains the highest number of dwellings of any locality in Argyll and Bute, with 6,714 dwellings – Table 4.19.

Table 4.19: Dwellings in key localities

Locality Dwellings % of A&B Total

Helensburgh 6,714 14.6%

Cardross 937 2.0%

Garelochhead 643 1.4%

Rosneath 393 0.9%

Kilcreggan 637 1.4%

Source: Census 2011

4.4.3 Education and Health

Schools

In both primary and secondary education there are just over 3,000 state school pupils in the Helensburgh and Lomond administrative area, amounting to 29% of the school roll in Argyll and Bute. It therefore has the highest pupil roll of the four administrative areas. However, its population density and lack of geographical barriers means just one secondary school serves the entire area, Hermitage Academy in Helensburgh, with 11 primary schools.

The secondary school roll declined by 3% between 2005 and 2013 (Table 4.20), a much smaller decrease than the Argyll and Bute average of 13%. As of September 2013, there was capacity to accommodate an additional 326 pupils at Hermitage Academy. Similarly, primary schools in the area are at 55% of their capacity (Table 4.21).

Additionally, the only private school in Argyll and Bute, Lomond School, is found in Helensburgh. This has a combined primary and secondary roll of 422 pupils, 46 of them boarders21.

Table 4.20: Secondary School Roll in Helensburgh and Lomond

% Full % Full % Full Max. Capacity 2013 2010 2005

Hermitage Academy 1,686 81% 83% 83% Argyll & Bute 7,283 68% 75% 79%

Source: Education Scotland, 2014

Table 4.21: Primary School Roll in Helensburgh and Lomond

% Full % Full Schools Capacity 2013 2010 % Full 2005

Helensburgh & Lomond 11 3,056 55% 57% 63% Argyll & Bute 76 7,283 68% 75% 79%

Source: Education Scotland, 2014

21 Independent Schools Council, Lomond School Overview, available online 93

Nurseries

The population of Helensburgh and Lomond aged 0-4 is 1,275. Table 4.22 shows the number of nurseries operating in the sub-area.

Table 4.22 Number of Nurseries in Helensburgh and Lomond

Local Nurseries Authority Voluntary Private Capacity*

Helensburgh & Lomond 14 5 2 7 461 Argyll & Bute 71 49 11 11 1,527

Source: Argyll & Bute Council website *This figure indicates max. capacity at any given time. Some nurseries operate two sessions daily and can thus cater to (up to) twice as many children.

Health Provision

Argyll & Bute Community Health Partnership is one of the four operational areas of NHS Highland. The Victoria Integrated Care Centre in Helensburgh offers a range of outpatient services but does not have inpatient facilities. Residents of Helensburgh and Lomond are served by the Vale of Leven Hospital in Alexandria, operated by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde.

The number of GPs and dentists in Helensburgh and Lomond appears low in comparison to Argyll and Bute as a whole, with 2,181 people per dentist and 1,309 people per GP. However, the sub-area’s proximity to major towns and cities in the Central Belt allows its population to access services elsewhere – Table 4.23 and Table 4.24.

Table 4.23: Dentists and Dental Practices in Helensburgh and Lomond

Dentists Dental Practices Pop. per Dentist

Helensburgh & Lomond 12 5 2,181

Argyll & Bute 67 26 1,314

Source: NHS Highland

Table 4.24: GPs and GP Practices in Helensburgh and Lomond

GPs GP Practices Population per GP

Helensburgh & Lomond 20 5 1,309

Argyll & Bute 109 33 808

Source: NHS Highland

4.4.4 Business Property

Key Business Areas

No industrial estates or business parks have been identified in the Helensburgh and Lomond area.

Local Plan Allocation and Policies

Table 4.25 presents the site allocations for business and industry use across Helensburgh and Lomond.

Table 4.25: Business and Industry Allocations

Location Use Class Size (Hectares)

Helensburgh - Craigendoran 4, 7 2 Ha

Source: Argyll and Bute Council, Planning Department

The Main Issues Report supporting preparation of the new Local Development Plan identifies one strategic industrial business locations in the Helensburgh and Lomond area. This is the Faslane – Maritime Change Project. The Faslane MoD base currently employs upwards of 6,700 military and civilian personnel, which is scheduled to grow to over 9,500 by 2019.

Table 4.26: Strategic and Local Regeneration Opportunities

Strategic Local

 Helensburgh – Town Centre and  Garelochhead Village Centre  Helensburgh Reservoirs Waterfront  Helensburgh – Town Centre East  Blackwood Colgrain  Kilmahew/Cardross  Rosneath Village Centre

Source: Argyll and Bute Council, Main Issues Report for Local Development Plan, 2011

Available Commercial Property

A review of the Co-Star SPN database identifies four commercial properties available for sale and/or lease in January 2015, as presented in Table 4.27.

Table 4.27: Available Commercial Property, January 2015

Location Retail Industrial Office Speciality Total

Helensburgh 8 2 2 1 13

Source: Co-star SPN

Planning Applications and Decisions

 13/002252/PP – temporary change of use for formation of open air market including the erection of stalls and attractions, Colquhoun Sq. Helensburgh, Helensburgh Winter Festival Committee – Granted (Nov 2013).

4.4.5 Transport Review

The main transport routes in Argyll and Bute are shown in Figure 4.12, over.

Figure 4.12: Transport Routes in Argyll and Bute

Source: Argyll and Bute Council

Roads

Helensburgh and Lomond can be reached from both north and south via the A82 trunk road, which runs along the western edge of Loch Lomond. This provides road access with Oban and the north and west of Argyll, and also with Dunbartonshire, Glasgow and the Central Belt.

Driving Time

Table 4.28 and Table 4.29 below display the estimated driving time between Helensburgh and a number of Scottish cities and other locations in Argyll and Bute.

Table 4.28 Driving time from key locations to Scottish cities

Glasgow Edinburgh Aberdeen Inverness

Helensburgh 43 min 1 hr 38 min 3 hr 48 min 3 hr 35 min

Source: AA Routeplanner

Table 4.29 Driving time between key locations

Lochgilphead Campbeltown Oban Dunoon Inveraray

Helensburgh 1 hr 32 min 2 hr 39 min 1 hr 44 min 1 hr 22 min* 0 hr 59 min

Source: AA Routeplanner; * denotes car ferry journey from Gourock to Dunoon, taking 20 mins

Ferries

With more inhabited islands than any other local authority in the UK, sea lochs which intersect the region and a long coastline, ferries form an essential part of Argyll and Bute’s transport infrastructure. However, they are much less important in Helensburgh and Lomond which, perhaps with the exception of the Rosneath Peninsula, enjoys good road links with central Scotland.

There is one passenger ferry route in the area, connecting Kilcreggan, south of Garelochhead, with Gourock in Inverclyde. This service is operated by Argyll and Bute Council, with frequent sailings between 6.45am and 6pm. Journey time is approximately 15 minutes.

Airports

There are no airports in the Helensburgh and Lomond area, although Helensburgh is little more than a 30 minute drive to Glasgow Airport.

Railways

The North Clyde Line terminates at Helensburgh Central, providing the town with a regular train service during all hours of Scotrail operation. The route links the town to much of central Scotland, passing through Glasgow Queen Street and culminating at Edinburgh Waverley, with one to two services per hour. Around 826,000 entries and exits were made through Helensburgh Central in the 2013/14 financial year.

Helensburgh is also connected with the West Highland Line which runs north to Oban and provides a slightly faster link to Glasgow city centre.

Buses

Helensburgh enjoys good bus links with central Scotland, with services operated by First Group and McGills. Garelochhead Coaches operate a bus service around the main settlements in the Rosneath Peninsula.

Core Paths and Cycling

A regional cycle route runs between Loch Lomond and Garelochhead, via Helensburgh.

4.4.6 Tourism, Leisure and Culture

Overview

Tourism data provided by Argyll and Bute Council shows the area had 2.24m visitors in 2013, an increase of 6.4% from 2012. Direct expenditure was calculated at £267m in 2013, from 4.72m visitor days. A total of 60% of visitors stayed overnight.22 As Helensburgh is within daytrip distance of the central belt, it is likely the case that the percentage of visitors staying overnight in this sub-area is lower.

22 STEAM Draft Trend Report for 2009-2013, Argyll and Bute Council (2015) 99

The 2011 Scottish Visitor Survey reveals a number of statistics about visitors to Argyll and Bute.

The average trip duration was 4.8 nights and the accommodation breakdown is shown in Figure 4.13, below. Figure 4.14 shows the percentage of respondents who engaged in a range of activities during their visit.

Figure 4.13: Accommodation Used by visitors to Argyll and Bute

Other, 6%

Camping, 8% B&B / guest house , 28%

Self-catering, 25%

Caravan, 12%

Hotel, 21%

Source: Scotland Visitor Survey, 2011

Figure 4.14: Most popular activities

Sightseeing 56% Trying local food 54% Short walk/ stroll 49% Visited a beach 43% Long walk, hike or ramble 40% Shopping 38% Visited a historic house 38% Centre based walking 35% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60%

Source: Scotland Visitor Survey, 2011

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The figures for Argyll and Bute are shown below, with Tarbet, Loch Lomond being the only centre in the Helensburgh and Lomond area with available statistics – Figure 4.15.

Figure 4.15: Annual footfall at Visit Scotland Information Centres 2013/14

141,971 Oban 144,798

70,002 Rothesay 79,028

63,987 Craignure, Mull 63,521

45,443 Inveraray 49,839

36,247 Tarbert, Loch Fyne 38,287

24,688 Campbeltown 25,442

21,052 Dunoon 22,521

8,197 Tarbet, Loch Lomond 9,377

0 20,000 40,000 60,000 80,000 100,000120,000140,000160,000

2013 2014

Source: Visit Scotland Marketing Opportunities, 2013

Attractions

The key attractions within Helensburgh and Lomond are:

 Hill House – Helensburgh;

 Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park;

 Linn Botanic Gardens;

 Submarine Museum (proposed) – Helensburgh; and

 Culture and Heritage Trail (proposed).

In addition, the international arts organisation NVA Europe is progressing plans to restore and re-open the St Peter’s/Kilmahew site in Cardross.

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This project will re-establish a semi-ancient woodland and restore a Category A listed building to create a new attraction.

The Paddle Argyll Sea Kayak Trail runs for 150km between Helensburgh and Ganavan near Oban. This was launched in 2014 with a dedicated website.

Leisure and Cultural Facilities

Libraries

There are public libraries in Helensburgh, Cardross and Rosneath, as well as the East Argyll Mobile Library which covers the area.

Cinemas, Theatres and Town Halls

There are no cinemas in Helensburgh and Lomond. However, the Screen Machine mobile cinema does occasionally visit more rural locations in the area.

Many of the villages and towns across mainland Argyll and Bute and the islands have community halls, most of which are run on a voluntary basis – Figure 4.16. These play an important role in community life and host a wide array of events, sports and social clubs and meetings each week.

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Figure 4.16: Community halls in Helensburgh and Lomond

Source: Argyll & Bute Council / Google Maps

Argyll and Bute Council operate the 300 capacity Victoria Hall in Helensburgh.

Leisure Centres

Argyll and Bute Council operate Helensburgh Swimming Pool, which includes a 25m pool and gym.

Events

Key events in the calendar for Helensburgh and Lomond are:

 Helensburgh and Lomond Real Ale Festival: May;

 Rosneath Peninsula Highland Games: June;

 Helensburgh and Lomond Highland Games: July; and

 Helensburgh Winter Festival: ice-rink, family events etc., late November.

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4.4.7 FDI Profile

At present, foreign investment primarily relates to the food and drink industry and energy production, sectors in which many UK-owned companies are also active.

Argyll and Bute Council is aiming to market the area as an attractive location for screen industry productions.

Multinational companies operating in Helensburgh and Lomond are primarily related to the defence sector, with the Faslane and Coulport naval bases acting as major employers in the area.

4.4.8 Retail Sector

Supermarkets

Helensburgh has a range of supermarkets with Waitrose, Tesco Metro, Tesco Express and Co-operative Food. There is also a Co-op store in Rosneath.

Helensburgh Retail Profile

In 2011, only nine of the 243 units in Helensburgh town centre were identified as vacant. Additionally, there are 23 units outside of the town centre boundary, one of which was vacant23. Waitrose is a recent addition to the town, opening in October 2013 adjacent to Hermitage Academy, outside of the town centre.

The CHORD programme has seen improvements to the urban realm in the town centre, including shop front, pavement, drainage and car park upgrades.

23Colliers, Helensburgh Retail Study, 2011 104

4.4.9 Utilities Review

Broadband

The council’s Economic Development Action Plan sets a target to achieve superfast broadband at 85% to 90% of Argyll and Bute’s population by 2020 and improved mobile phone signal quality and coverage levels throughout Argyll and Bute. Rural broadband and digital infrastructure projects across the local authority are ongoing.

OFCOM reports that as of 2013, broadband take-up in Argyll and Bute is 67.3%, with no capacity for superfast broadband24.

However, given its proximity to the Central Belt, Helensburgh does not suffer from poor connectivity and broadband speeds in the same way as other rural settlements in Argyll and Bute.

Mobile coverage

OFCOM report that 5.6% of premises in Argyll and Bute do not receive a reliable 2G mobile signal from any operator, while 20% do not receive 3G.

There is no 2G mobile signal in 36.5% of the geographical landmass of Argyll and Bute, with 74% of the area unable to receive 3G25.

4.4.10 Community Services and Access

The Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD) ranks small areas, or datazones, against 38 different social and economic indicators, from most deprived to least deprived.

In SIMD 2012, 42% of Helensburgh and Lomond’s datazones are in the 15% most access deprived at a national level, down from 67% in in the 2009 index. This is calculated by measuring each datazone’s access to basic services such as GP, primary school and Post Office26. The most access deprived datazone in the area (ranked 259th in Scotland) is situated in the village of Cove on the west coast of the Rosneath Peninsula.

24 OFCOM, Fixed Broadband Map 2013, available online 25 OFCOM, Mobile Services Map 2013, available online 26 Scottish Index on Multiple Deprivation, 2012 105

This section details the location of a number of different amenities and services across the Helensburgh and Lomond administrative area:

 Job Centres: there is a job centre operated by the Department for Work and Pensions in Helensburgh;

 Police: the area is policed by the Argyll and West Dunbartonshire division of Police Scotland with police offices in Helensburgh and Garelochhead;

 Crime: in the crime domain of SIMD 2012, six (17%) of Helensburgh and Lomond’s 36 datazones were among the 15% most crime deprived in Scotland. The most crime deprived datazone in the area (ranked 120th nationally) is Helensburgh town centre. Argyll and Bute as a whole saw a 7% reduction in reported crime from 2012/13 to 2013/14, when there were 330 reported crimes per 10,000 population, the 8th lowest rate in Scotland. There has been a 46% drop since 2004/5, compared to a Scottish average fall of 38%27;

 Courts: the Helensburgh and Lomond area is served by Dumbarton Sheriff Court;

 Council Offices: there is a public service point and planning office in Helensburgh;

 Mountain Rescue: the area is covered by a mountain rescue team based in Arrochar;

 Fire: Argyll and Bute has a particularly high rate (per 100,000 population) of road traffic crash fire service call-outs, at more than double the national average, and flooding, at just under double the national figure28. Scottish Fire and Rescue operate stations in Arrochar, Helensburgh, Cove and Garelochhead; and

 Banks: Helensburgh has branches of TSB, RBS, Bank of Scotland, Santander and Clydesdale Bank. There is also a Bank of Scotland branch in Kilcreggan.

27 Scottish Government, Recorded Crime in Scotland, 2013-14 28 Scottish Government, Fire and Rescue Statistics, Scotland, 2013-14 106

5. Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands

5.1 Introduction

This chapter sets out an analysis of the economic and skills profile of the Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay administrative area.

5.2 Economic Profile

This section includes a review and profile of the following factors:

 demography;

 labour market;

 employment;

 industry output;

 key sectors; and

 business base.

5.2.1 Population

Overview

The population of Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands (MAKI) was 20,648 in 2013 with, at 57%, a lower proportion of working age people than Argyll and Bute (60.9%) and Scotland (65.1%) as a whole, and a higher rate of those of pensionable age (27%) than both Argyll and Bute (23.4%) and nationally (17.8%) – Table 5.1.

Table 5.1: Population of Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay, 2013

Children (%) Working age (%) Pensionable age (%) Total

MAKI 16% 57% 27% 20,648

Argyll & Bute 15.7% 60.9% 23.4% 88,050 5,327,70 Scotland 17.1% 65.1% 17.8% 0

Source: Scottish Neighbourhood Statistics (SNS)

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After an initial increase from 2001, MAKI has seen a fall in its population since 2005. Overall, the sub-area’s population declined 1% in the decade to 2011, although this is lower than the Argyll and Bute wide figure of 2% – Figure 5.1. This contrasts to the population of Scotland, which grew 4% over the same period.

Figure 5.1: Population Change in MAKI, 2001-2011

Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Argyll & Bute Scotland

1.04

1.03

1.02

1.01

1.00

0.99

0.98

0.97 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

Source: Scottish Neighbourhood Statistics (SNS)

Figure 5.2: Population Trend – Children, 2001-2011

1.00

0.95

0.90

0.85

0.80

0.75 Mid Argyll, Kintyre & the Islands Argyll & Bute Scotland

0.70 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

Source: SNS

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Figure 5.3: Population Trend – Working Age, 2001-2011

1.05

1.00

0.95

0.90

0.85

0.80 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

Mid Argyll, Kintyre & the Islands Argyll & Bute Scotland

Source: SNS

Figure 5.4: Population Trend – Pensionable Age, 2001-2011

1.25

1.20

1.15

1.10

1.05

1.00

0.95

0.90 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

Mid Argyll, Kintyre & the Islands Argyll & Bute Scotland

Source: SNS

MAKI has seen a steeper decrease in its number of children (-21%) than the local authority area (-17%), but the decrease in its working age population (-3%) has been slightly lower than the -4% fall seen in Argyll and Bute. The sub-area’s increase in people of a pensionable age (20%) is greater than the wider trends in Argyll and Bute (16%) and Scotland as a whole (10%).

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5.2.2 Area Forecasts

Table 5.2: MAKI Population Projection

2012 2037 Change %

Children 3,230 2,860 -370 -11%

Working age 12,430 9,735 -2,695 -22%

Pensionable age 4,988 5,151 163 3%

Total 20,648 17,745 -2,903 -14%

Source: Argyll and Bute Council Pensionable age is 65 in 2012, rising to 68 in 2037.

By this projection the MAKI area will, by 2037, have a ratio of 1.9 persons of working age for each person of pensionable age, putting additional strain on health and social care services.

Table 5.3: Population Change in MAKI Settlements, 1991 – 2012

Locality Est Population

% % Change Change Change 2003- Since since 1991 2003 2010 2012 2003/12 12 1991 1991

Ardrishaig 1,315 1,230 1,280 1,320 90 7% 5 0%

Bowmore 869 860 860 760 -100 -12% -109 -14%

Campbeltown 5,722 5,030 4,810 4,800 -230 -5% -922 -19%

Inveraray 512 570 650 570 0 0% 58 10%

Lochgilphead 2,421 2,340 2,280 2,390 50 2% -31 -1%

Port Ellen 917 830 850 830 0 0% -87 -10%

Tarbert 1,347 1,360 1,300 1,130 -230 -18% -217 -19%

Ardrishaig 1,315 1,230 1,280 1,320 90 7% 5 0%

Source: Argyll and Bute Council

Settlement populations have been relatively stable across MAKI apart from a noticeable decline in Campbeltown, the most populous settlement in the area. The town’s population fell 19% between 1991 and 2012.

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5.2.3 Labour Market

Table 5.4, below, shows the number of people claiming out of work benefits in MAKI.

Table 5.4: Claimant Count, 2004-2014

Area 2004 2014 (June)

No Rate No Rate South Kintyre 179 4.3% 130 3.2% Kintyre and the Islands 116 2.8% 32 0.9% Mid Argyll 116 2.3% 74 1.6%

Source: NOMIS

South Kintyre has the highest (numerical) and third highest (per capita) claimant count in Argyll and Bute, at 3.2%. The Kintyre and the Islands and Mid Argyll areas have claimant counts which are favourable compared to both the wider local authority area (2%) and Scotland (3.4%) as a whole.

Table 5.5: Employment Count, 2009-2013

2009 2013 Change %

Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands 8,949 8,871 -78 -1% Argyll and Bute 36,861 35,484 -1,377 -4% Scotland 2,406,782 2,357,757 -49,025 -2%

Source: NOMIS

Despite a steeper decline in the working age population of the area, the employment figures for MAKI have declined by only 1%. This contrasts to the nation as a whole which has seen an increase in its working age population and a decrease in employment of 2%.

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5.2.4 Employment Profile

Table 5.6: Employment in MAKI by 2-digit SIC (2013)

% Change Sector Employment 2009-2013* 02 : Forestry and logging 100 03 : Fishing and aquaculture 100 08 : Other mining and quarrying 10 : Manufacture of food products 100 11 : Manufacture of beverages 300 25 : Manufacture of fabricated metal products, except machinery etc. 150 41 : Construction of buildings 300 42 : Civil engineering 200 43 : Specialised construction activities 200 45 : Wholesale and retail trade and repair of motor vehicles etc. 100 46 : Wholesale trade, except of motor vehicles and motorcycles 300 47 : Retail trade, except of motor vehicles and motorcycles 600 -150 49 : Land transport and transport via pipelines 300 50 : Water transport 100 52 : Warehousing and support activities for transportation 150 53 : Postal and courier activities 100 55 : Accommodation 800 +150 56 : Food and beverage service activities 300 +100 68 : Real estate activities 200 +100 71 : Architectural and engineering activities; technical testing and analysis 72 : Scientific research and development 77 : Rental and leasing activities 78 : Employment activities 81 : Services to buildings and landscape activities 50 +50 82 : Office administrative, office support and other business support 84 : Public administration and defence; compulsory social security 1,000 -400 85 : Education 700 -150 86 : Human health activities 1,150 87 : Residential care activities 200 88 : Social work activities without accommodation 350 91 : Libraries, archives, museums and other cultural activities 150 93 : Sports activities and amusement and recreation activities 250 +150 96 : Other personal service activities 100 +50

Source: BRES/NOMIS Data subject to rounding restrictions * Data relates to sub-sectors where the change is greater than 50

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MAKI has strong levels of employment in accommodation (800 employees), healthcare (1,150 employees) and the public sector (1,000 employees). Like much of the region, the public sector is the largest source of employment.

The largest increase in employment has come from the accommodation and sports and recreation sectors, emphasising the importance of tourism to the area.

Key sectors of employment include forestry, beverages, manufacturing and construction. There have also been increases in employment in food and drink, sports and real estate.

Table 5.7: Employment Profile

Part-time Full-time % Part-time

Male 603 4,709 11.4% MAKI Female 2,212 2,625 45.7% Total 2,815 7,334 27.7% Male 2,792 19,475 12.5% Argyll & Bute Female 8,982 10,546 46% Total 11,774 30,021 28.2% Male 170,237 112,5078 13.1% Scotland Female 535,380 686,200 43.8% Total 705,617 1,811,278 28%

Source: NOMIS

At 27.7%, MAKI has a slightly lower incidence of part time employment than both Scotland (28%) and Argyll and Bute overall (28%).

However, when female employment is considered by itself, the percentage of part time employees (45.7%) is higher than the Scottish average (43.8%).

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5.2.5 Business Base

Overview

Agriculture, forestry and fishing has the highest business count of any single sector in the MAKI area (29.8%) – Table 5.8.

Table 5.8: Business Base in MAKI 2014

MAKI Argyll & Bute Scotland

No. % No. % No. %

Agriculture, forestry & fishing 410 29.8% 880 19.8% 17,570 8.6%

Production 85 6.2% 275 6.2% 10,935 5.4%

Construction 100 7.3% 370 8.3% 18,535 9.1%

Motor trades 20 1.5% 95 2.1% 5,150 2.5%

Wholesale 45 3.3% 135 3.0% 7,535 3.7%

Retail 130 9.5% 545 12.3% 23,045 11.3% Transport & storage (inc. 70 5.1% postal) 190 4.3% 6,535 3.2% Accommodation & food 100 7.3% services 480 10.8% 15,375 7.5%

Information & communication 15 1.1% 120 2.7% 9,230 4.5%

Finance & insurance 5 0.4% 45 1.0% 4,370 2.1%

Property 30 2.2% 125 2.8% 6,000 2.9% Professional, scientific & 85 6.2% technical 380 8.6% 31,335 15.4% Business administration and 45 3.3% support services 120 2.7% 12,745 6.3% Public administration and 45 3.3% defence 120 2.7% 2,915 1.4%

Education 40 2.9% 170 3.8% 5,505 2.7%

Health 70 5.1% 135 3.0% 12,430 6.1% Arts, entertainment, recreation 80 5.8% & other services 255 5.7% 14,550 7.1%

Total 1375 100% 4,440 100% 203,760 100%

Source: NOMIS, UK Business Count, 2014

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Figure 5.5: Business Base by Employee Size

Small (10-49) Medium (50-249) 12% 2%

Micro (0-9) 86%

Source: NOMIS, 2013. No large businesses (250+ employees) identified in data at sub-regional level

At 85.7%, MAKI has the highest proportion of micro businesses in Argyll and Bute, but also the largest proportion of medium sized enterprises (2%).

5.2.6 Micro Businesses

Table 5.9, overleaf, shows a breakdown of the micro business base in MAKI, with an even higher incidence of businesses in agriculture, forestry and fishing sector (40.9%).

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Table 5.9: Micro Business Base in MAKI

Sector % Agriculture, forestry & fishing 40.9% Production 2.6% Construction 8.3% Wholesale, retail trade and motor trades 16.1% Transport & storage (inc. postal) 3.1% Accommodation & food services 7.3% Information & communication 1.6% Finance & insurance 0% Property 1.6% Professional, scientific & technical 7.3% Business administration Services 3.6% Public administration and defence 0% Education 0% Health 2.6% Arts, entertainment, recreation & other services 5.2% Source: NOMIS, 2013 5.3 Skills Profile

This section provides a review of the education and skills profile within MAKI.

5.3.1 Workforce Qualifications

Table 5.10 and Figure 5.6 provide an overview of the level of workforce qualifications in MAKI when compared to the wider local authority area and the national picture. Both show the highest level of qualification held.

Table 5.10: Highest Level of Qualification Held by Adult Population

Level 4 No Quals Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 and above

Kintyre and the Islands 29% 23% 15% 7% 26% Mid Argyll, Kintyre & South Kintyre 35% 24% 14% 7% 20% the Islands Mid Argyll 22% 22% 15% 9% 32% Total 29% 23% 15% 8% 26% Argyll and Bute 25% 23% 15% 9% 29% Scotland 27% 23% 14% 10% 26%

Source: Census 2011

Mid Argyll has a workforce with a higher rate of Level 4+ qualifications (32%) than both the local authority (29%) and national average (26%).

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However, this is in contrast to South Kintyre, which has a lower incidence of those qualified at Level 4+ 920%) and, at 35%, a considerably higher rate who have no qualifications.

The Kintyre and the Islands multimember ward is approximately in line with the national average.

Figure 5.6: Highest Level of Qualification Held by Adult Population

35% 29% 29% 30% 27% 25% 26% 26% 25% 23%23%23% 20% 15%15%14% 15% 9% 10% 10% 8% 5% 0% No Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Level 4 and Qualifications above

Mid Argyll, Kintyre & the Islands Argyll & Bute Scotland

Source: Census 2011

5.3.2 Occupational Profile

Table 5.11, overleaf, provides an occupational breakdown of the workforce in MAKI.

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Table 5.11: Occupational Profile in MAKI

MAKI Argyll & Bute Scotland

Managers, directors 1,039 10% 4,537 11% 210,819 8% and senior officials Professional 1,330 13% 5,833 14% 421,639 17% occupations Associate professional 933 9% 5,887 14% 318,380 13% technical Administrative and 1,079 11% 4,014 10% 286,144 11% secretarial occupations Skilled trades 1,994 20% 6,713 16% 315,177 13% occupations Caring, leisure and other service 1,004 10% 4,273 10% 244,508 10% occupations Sales and customer 569 6% 2,866 7% 234,367 9% service occupations Process, plant and 844 8% 2,766 7% 193,594 8% machine operatives Elementary 1,357 13% 4,906 12% 292,267 12% occupations Total Numbers 10,149 41,795 2,516,895

Source: Census 2011

MAKI has fewer management/professional occupations (10%), and more skilled trade positions (20%). Otherwise, trends are generally reflective of the local authority area.

5.3.3 School Attainment

Details of the educational attainment at individual school level are presented in the tables below. Tarbert and Lochgilphead frequently outperform the local authority and national averages for S4, S5 and S6 attainment.

However, Tarbert has a low school roll (just over 100 students – see Section 3.3) so it prone to fluctuation between years. Campbeltown and Islay are more in line with the Argyll and Bute average.

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Table 5.13: S4 Attainment by Year

S4 (% of roll achieving 5 awards at specified SCFQ award or better)

Level 3 or better Level 4 or better Level 5 or better 10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/13 Campbeltown 96 94 90 85 74 66 43 41 31 Lochgilphead 99 94 91 88 83 80 44 41 34 Islay High 96 97 89 76 89 86 30 47 40 Tarbert 100 100 94 96 100 94 39 71 50 Argyll & Bute 92 95 94 79 83 81 37 42 40 Scotland 93 94 95 79 80 82 36 37 39

Source: Education Scotland, 2013

Table 5.14: S5 Attainment by Year

S5 (% of S4 roll from previous year achieving awards at SCQF Level 6 or better)

One or More Three or more Five or more

10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/13 Campbeltown 39 46 41 23 24 21 10 9 8 Lochgilphead 58 50 48 39 30 34 21 14 20 Islay High 40 37 56 29 9 25 12 4 14 Tarbert 48 30 86 34 26 64 21 13 43 Argyll & Bute 49 46 53 27 25 32 Scotland 45 47 49 26 27 29

Source: Education Scotland, 2013

Table 5.15: S6 Attainment by Year

S6 (% of S4 roll from 2 years previous achieving awards at SCQF Level 6 or better)

One or More Five or more One or more at Level 7 10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/13 10/11 11/12 12/13 Campbeltown 31 33 41 21 25 22 4 19 11

Lochgilphead 43 54 43 29 42 30 19 35 21

Islay High 26 31 28 15 14 4 5 10 7 Tarbert 59 45 35 41 34 22 23 21 4 Argyll & Bute 58 58 54 23 27 24 16 21 15 Scotland 35 37 38 24 26 27 16 16 17

Source: Education Scotland, 2013

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5.3.4 School Leaver Destinations

There are four secondary schools in the MAKI administrative area, located in Campbeltown, Bowmore, Tarbert and Lochgilphead. Table 5.12 shows school leaver destinations in 2012/13.

Table 5.12: School Leaver Destinations 2012/13

Trainin HE FE g Employment Unemployed

Kintyre and the 9% 4% 51% 7% Islands 30%

MAKI South Kintyre 38% 23% 1% 34% 4% Mid Argyll 53% 9% 1% 29% 7% Total 42% 14% 2% 37% 6% Argyll & Bute 38% 21% 5% 28% 8% Scotland 36% 28% 6% 21% 8%

Source: SNS

MAKI has a significantly higher proportion of young people moving straight into employment while Mid Argyll, overall, has the highest proportion of leavers going into Higher Education. There is a very low incidence of those from MAKI going into training. The business base in the region is more practical than professional so there are implications surrounding where these school leavers are going and whether the business base exists to employ them when/if they return.

Figure 5.7: School Leaver Destinations 2012/13

45% 42% 38% 40% 36% 37% 35% 30% 28% 28%

25% 21% 21% 20% 14% 15% 10% 8% 8% 5% 6% 6% 5% 2% 0% Higher Further Training Employment Unemployed Education Education

Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Argyll & Bute Scotland

Source: Education Scotland, 2013

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5.3.5 Further Education

A range of courses are offered across four Argyll College learning centres in MAKI – Table 5.16.

Table 5.16: FE Provision in MAKI

Campus Full-time Courses Part-time Courses

Lochgilphead Childcare, Youth Work, Art, Ceramics, Cookery, Photography, Hairdressing, Admin, Intro to Counselling/Psychology Computing, Hospitality, Tourism, Construction, Carpentry, Bricklaying, Fitness, Rural Skills, Equido Construction Varies Varies - dependent on demand Renewables Centre, Lochgilphead

Campbeltown Sport and Fitness, Business, NPA Equine, Digital Skills Award, Construction, Health and Social Garden Design, Genealogy, Book Care, Beauty, Agriculture, Keeping, Modern Languages, Sign Rural Skills Language, ECDL, Coaching Skills, Self-defence, Digital Photography, First Aid, Food Hygiene, Equido Islay Sport and Fitness, Childcare, Higher English, Literature, Equido, Admin, Computing, Hospitality, Modern Languages, Make-up Tourism, Fitness, Horticulture, Agriculture, Construction Management

Source: UHI website 5.4 Area Asset Audit

5.4.1 Overview

This chapter presents an asset audit for the MAKI administrative area, describing the physical and cultural assets that the area holds, and thereby identifying gaps that could constrain future growth and diversification.

The main settlements in the MAKI area are Campbeltown and Lochgilphead, with others including Bowmore (Islay), Tarbert, Ardrishaig and Inveraray. The area includes the inhabited islands of Islay, Jura, Gigha, Colonsay and Oronsay.

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5.4.2 Housing Profile

There are 11,787 dwellings in MAKI, amounting to 25% of the Argyll and Bute total. Figure 5.8 breaks down the number of dwellings by Council Tax band and Figure 5.9 by type of dwelling.

Figure 5.8: Dwellings by Council Tax band Figure 5.9: Dwellings by type

Band Terraced, F/G/H, 20% Flats, 9% 23% Band D/E, 27%

Band A/B/C, 64% Detached/semi-detached, 57%

Source: SNS, 2013

There were 223 house sales in the administrative area in 2013, with an average selling price of £132,682.

The MAKI area has a much higher rate of second/holiday homes (10%) than the national average (1%) – Figure 5.10.

Figure 5.10: Houses by Occupancy

100% 96% 89% 90% 86% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 10% 5% 6% 3% 1% 4% 0% Scotland A&B MAKI Vacant Second Home Occupied

Source: Census 2011

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The prevalence of second/holiday homes is much more pronounced in some localities than others, particularly the islands – Figure 5.11.

Figure 5.11: Occupancy by Settlement/Island

Source: Census 2011, Table KS401SC. Image: Google Maps. May not tally to 100% due to rounding.

More households live in socially rented accommodation in MAKI (23%) than the Argyll and Bute average (19%) – Figure 5.12.

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Figure 5.12: Household Tenure

12% Private rent 10% 11%

23% Other social rent 19% 11%

0% Local authority rent 0% 13%

62% Owned 66% 62%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70%

MAKI A&B Scotland

Source: Census 2011, Table KS402SC

Table 5.17: Dwellings in key localities

Locality Dwelling % of A&B Total

Bowmore 409 0.9% Ardrishaig 673 1.5% Lochgilphead 1,183 2.6% Campbeltown 2,656 5.8% Inveraray 290 0.6% Tarbert 681 1.5%

Source: Census 2011

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5.4.3 Education and Health

Schools

There are around 2,540 school pupils in the MAKI administrative area, amounting to 24% of the school roll in Argyll and Bute. There are four secondary schools, located in Tarbert, Bowmore, Campbeltown and Lochgilphead, and 26 primary schools. The secondary school roll declined by 15% between 2005 and 2013, a steeper drop than the Argyll and Bute wide drop of 13%. As of September 2013, there was capacity to accommodate an additional 922 pupils in the secondary schools in MAKI.

For education, Colonsay is included in the Oban, Lorn and the Isles administrative area, despite otherwise being in MAKI. Primary pupils attend Kilchattan Primary on the island, while those of secondary age attend Oban High School, with special flights operated to allow return pupils to travel home at the weekend.

Table 5.18: Secondary School Roll in MAKI

Max. Capacity % Full 2013 % Full 2010 % Full 2005

Campbeltown 884 52% 59% 65% Grammar School Islay High School 377 55% 59% 67% Lochgilphead High 727 68% 72% 71% Tarbert Academy 201 53% 60% 78% MAKI Total 2189 58% 63% 68% Argyll & Bute 7283 68% 75% 79% Source: Scottish Government, 2014

Table 5.19: Primary School Roll in OLI

Schools Capacity % Full 2013 % Full 2010 % Full 2005

MAKI 26* 2900 44% 46% 54% Argyll & Bute 76 11252 49% 50% 58%

*27 schools in 2005 Source: Scottish Government, 2014

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Nurseries

The population of MAKI aged 0-4 is 895. Table 5.20 shows the number of nurseries operating in the sub-area.

Table 5.20 Number of Nurseries in OLI

Local Nurseries* Authority Voluntary Private Capacity**

MAKI 19 17 0 2 362

Argyll & Bute 71 49 11 11 1527

Health Provision

Argyll & Bute Community Health Partnership is one of the four operational areas of NHS Highland. In the MAKI area, community hospital facilities are operated in Campbeltown and Bowmore, and in Lochgilphead which also has a separate mental health facility. Figure 5.13 shows the distribution of GP practices and hospitals in the area.

Figure 5.13: NHS Highland Facilities in MAKI

Source: NHS Highland

With one dentist per 1,083 people and one GP per 605 people, this compares favourably to Argyll and Bute as a whole – Table 5.21 and Table 5.22. 126

Table 5.21 Number of Dentists and Dental Practices in MAKI

Dentists Dental Practices Population per Dentist Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay 19 7 1,083 Argyll & Bute 67 26 1,314 Source: NHS Highland

Table 5.22 Number of GPs and GP Practices in MAKI

Population per GPs GP Practices GP

Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay 34 10 605 Argyll & Bute 109 33 808

Source: NHS Highland

5.4.4 Business Property

Key Business Areas

We have identified five industrial estates and business parks within the MAKI sub- area: Kilmory Industrial Estate, Lochgilphead; Highbank Park, Lochgilphead,; Hazelburn Business Park, Campbeltown; Snipefield Industrial Estate, Campbeltown; Tarbert Industrial Estate.

Local Plan Allocation and Policies

The new Argyll and Bute Local Development Plan was adopted in March 2015, replacing the 2009 plan. This document outlines land use allocation and policies to guide future development proposals for business, residential, leisure, community, greenspace, etc.

Table 5.23 presents the site allocations for business and industry use across MAKI.

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Table 5.23: Business and Industry Allocations

Location Use Class Size (Ha)

Kilmory Ph 3, Lochgilphead 5,6 3.34 Ha Achanbreck, Lochgilphead 5,6 4.29 Ha Glasgow Road, Tarbert 4,5,6 6.59 Ha Campbeltown Road, Tarbert 4,6 0.44 Ha Snipefield, Campbeltown 4,5,6 2.47 Ha Inveraray – North 4,5,6 1.37 Ha Inveraray – South 4,5,6 0.60 Ha Inveraray – East 4,5,6 0.79 Ha Bowmore, Islay 4,5,6 1.89 Ha Bridgend, Islay 4,5,6 8.13 Ha Port Ellen, Islay 4,5,6 0.64 Ha

Source: Argyll & Bute Council Planning Department

The Main Issues Report supporting preparation of the new Local Development Plan identifies one strategic industrial business locations in the MAKI area, Kilmory Industrial Estate. This is a large scale industrial and business estate with the potential to be significantly expanded, situated near to the main town of Lochgilphead, which occupies a central location with good access to strategic road routes.

Further examples in MAKI include the Campbeltown Townscape Heritage Initiative and the Campbeltown Conservation Area.

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Table 5.24: Strategic and Local Regeneration Opportunities

Strategic Local

 Campbeltown – Town Centre,  Port Ellen Waterfront Waterfront and Harbour  Ardfern Village Centre  Machrihanish  Lochgilphead Hospital Land

 Lochgilphead Kilmory Home Farm

 Tarbert Harbour / Waterfront

 Carradale Harbour / Waterfront

 Ardrishaig Town Centre / Waterfront

Source: Argyll and Bute Council, Main Issues Report for Local Development Plan, 2011

Available Commercial Property

A review of the Co-Star Scottish Property Network database identifies four commercial properties available for sale and/or lease in January 2015, as presented in Table 5.25.

Table 5.25: Available Commercial Property, January 2015

Location Retail Industrial Office Speciality Total

Campbeltown 2 1 3

Lochgilphead 1 1

Source: Co-Star SPN

Planning Applications and Decisions

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 13/02860/MPLAN – Inveraray Project Masterplan in relation to designation MAST 1/5 (Feb 2013) – Masterplan Approved (Sept 2014);

 14/01256/MPLAN – Masterplan in relation to designation MAST 1/8 (Feb 2013), Argyll & Bute Hospital, Blarbuie Road, Lochgilphead – Masterplan Approved (Sept 2014);

 14/00222/MPLAN – Masterplan proposals for mixed use tourism / housing / business development, Craobh Haven – Masterplan Approved (Apr 2014);

 13/02649/PP – Erection of bonded warehouse (Class 6), associated access and installation of septic tank, Land North of Avonvogie Abattoir, Bowmore Islay – Approved subject to change to conditions 7/8, to be discharged by Head of Planning with local ward members (May 2014);

 13/02862/PP – Erection of 18 affordable dwellings, formation of new vehicular access and associated Masterplan for PDA 10/15, Land south east of Imerivale Cottage Port Ellen, Isle Of Islay – Masterplan Approved and Planning Permission Granted (Feb 2014); and

 12/02150/PP – Proposed windfarm comprising 11 No. wind turbines (100 metres to blade tip), temporary and permanent anemometer masts, substation building, access tracks, construction compounds and ancillary development – Land East Of Loch Freasdail And North Of Loch Cruinn, Whitehouse, by Tarbert – Planning Permission Refused (Sept 2013).

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5.4.5 Transport

The main transport routes in Argyll and Bute are shown in Figure 5.14.

Figure 5.14: Transport Routes in Argyll and Bute

Source: Argyll and Bute Council

Roads

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The MAKI administrative area is primarily connected with central Scotland by the A82, which runs north from Glasgow before splitting at Tarbet by Loch Lomond. From there, the A83 runs the length of Kintyre to Campbeltown, via Inveraray, Lochgilphead and Tarbert. The A816 runs north from Lochgilphead to Oban.

The full length of the A83 became the responsibility of Transport Scotland in August 2014, with the section south of Kennacraig previously managed by Argyll and Bute Council. The ‘Rest and Be Thankful’ section of the road, north of Tarbert, is prone to landslips, meaning that closures are not an irregular occurrence. £3.7m has been invested upgrading an alternative route, the Old Military Road, which works as a relief road in the event of the A83 being closed, and came into use in spring 2013.

Driving Time

Table 5.26 and Table 5.27 below display the estimated driving time between key locations in MAKI and a number of Scottish cities and other locations in Argyll and Bute.

Table 5.26: Driving time from key locations to Scottish cities

Glasgow Edinburgh Aberdeen Inverness

Lochgilphead 1 hr 57 min 2 hr 53 min 4 hr 29 min 3 hr 49 min Campbeltown 3 hr 4 min 4 hr 0 min 5 hr 36 min 4 hr 57 min Inveraray 1 hr 23 min 2 hr 19 min 3 hr 55 min 3 hr 16 min

Source: AA Routeplanner

Table 5.27: Driving time between key locations

Helensburgh Lochgilphead Campbeltown Oban Dunoon

Lochgilphead 1 hr 32 min - 1 hr 8 min 1 hr 14 min 1 hr 42 min Campbeltown 2 hr 39 min 1 hr 8 min - 2 hr 21 min 2 hr 50 min Inveraray 0 hr 59 min 0 hr 33 min 1 hr 41 min 51 min 1 hr 9 min

Source: AA Routeplanner

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5.4.6 Ferries

Most services are operated by Caledonian MacBrayne (Cal Mac), wholly owned by the Scottish Government, although Argyll and Bute Council support or directly run some ferries. In instances where ferries are not run by Cal Mac, this is specified:

 Claonaig/Tarbert (Kintyre) to Lochranza (Arran) – 30 minute service from Lochranza to Claonaig runs throughout the day from April until October. During the winter months, one return service operates to Tarbert, taking 85 minutes each way. This service carried 43,000 passengers in 2013;

 Ardrossan (North Ayrshire) to Campbeltown (pilot) – between April and September, 2 hour 40 minute sailing from Ardrossan to Campbeltown on Thursday, Friday and Sunday. Return sailings are on Friday, Saturday (via Brodick, taking an extra hour) and Sunday;

 Campbeltown to Ballycastle (NI) – RIB passenger ferry service operated by privately owned Kintyre Express (West Coast Motors), 1 hour 30 minute journey, with one return sailing on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday during April, May and September, and daily during June, July and August. Considerably more expensive than other ferry services listed here, at £60 return;

 Tayinloan (Kintyre) to Gigha – 20 minute crossing operates through the day, with slightly fewer sailings and early finishing in winter and some services by request only. Carried 58,361 passengers in 2013;

 Oban to Colonsay – 2 hour 20 mins sailing, with one sailing a day during summer and four a week during winter, carried 15,700 passengers in 2013;

 Tarbert (Kintyre) to Portavadie (Cowal) – 25 minute sailing operates all day and all year, with up to 12 return journeys. 62,000 passengers in 2013;

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 Port Askaig to Feolin (Jura) – five minute journey between Islay and Jura, operated on behalf of Argyll and Bute Council. Up to 19 return sailings a day during summer, and 16 during winter, although some later sailings must be requested in advance. Reduced service on Sundays with seven in summer and six in winter; and

 Craighouse (Jura) to Tayvallich (Knapdale) – passenger ferry running from April to September, on behalf of Isle of Jura Development Trust. Two return ferries a day, except for Wednesday when there are no sailings, and Sunday which has one. Allows direct access to Jura from the mainland, without going via Islay. Takes under one hour.

Airports

There are three airports within the MAKI administrative area. The locations and the services they offer are:

 Campbeltown: located at Machrihanish, three miles west of Campbeltown, provides two return flights to Glasgow Airport Monday to Friday, operated by FlyBe/Loganair and taking 40 minutes. Served 9,000 passengers in 2013;

 Islay: situated half-way between Bowmore and Port Ellen, two of the main villages on the island. Scheduled flights are operated by FlyBe/Loganair – two return flights to Glasgow during the week and one at the weekend; and Hebridean Air Services (HAS) – operates two flights to Oban on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with one stopping over on Colonsay (Winter timetable 2014/15). Served 26,000 passengers in 2013; and

 Colonsay: HAS provides two 25 min flights to Oban every Tuesday and Thursday, as well as one flight to Islay on these mornings. There are also ‘scholar flights’ on Saturday mornings and Sunday afternoons during term time, allowing school pupils to travel for attendance at Oban High School.

All of the airports in Argyll and Bute are public assets, with Argyll and Bute Council operating Colonsay airport, and the Scottish Government owned Highlands and Islands Airports Limited running Campbeltown and Islay.

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Railways

There are no railways in the Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay area.

Buses

Long haul services are operated by Scottish Citylink/West Coast Motors. Service 976 operates from Oban to Glasgow via Inveraray, with six services a day in each direction. Service 926 goes from Campbeltown to Glasgow via Kennacraig, Tarbert, Ardrishaig, Lochgilphead, Inveraray and Dumbarton. Six services leave Glasgow daily, although one terminates at Ardrishaig. Five leave Campbeltown, with a 4 hour 15 minute journey to Glasgow.

The primary provider of local bus services in Argyll and Bute is Campbeltown based West Coast Motors, operating routes across the region. Individual bus networks cover Campbeltown, Kintyre and Tarbert and Mid-Argyll.

Core Paths and Cycling

National Cycle Route 78 runs between Oban and Campbeltown, and is mostly road based.

5.4.7 Tourism, Leisure and Culture

Overview

The 2011 Scottish Visitor Survey reveals a number of statistics about visitors to Argyll and Bute. The average trip duration was 4.8 nights and the accommodation

29 STEAM Draft Trend Report for 2009-2013, Argyll and Bute Council (2015) 135

breakdown is shown in Figure 5.15, below. Figure 5.16 shows the percentage of respondents who engaged in a range of activities during their visit.

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Figure 5.15: Accommodation Used by visitors to Argyll and Bute

Other, 6%

Camping, 8% B&B / guest house , 28%

Self-catering, 25%

Caravan, 12%

Hotel, 21%

Source: Scotland Visitor Survey, 2011

Figure 5.16: Most popular activities

Source: Scotland Visitor Survey, 2011

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Figure 5.17: Annual footfall at Visit Scotland Information Centres 2013/14

141,971 Oban 144,798

70,002 Rothesay 79,028

63,987 Craignure, Mull 63,521

45,443 Inveraray 49,839

36,247 Tarbert, Loch Fyne 38,287

24,688 Campbeltown 25,442

21,052 Dunoon 22,521

8,197 Tarbet, Loch Lomond 9,377

0 20,000 40,000 60,000 80,000 100,000120,000140,000160,000

2013 2014

Source: Visit Scotland Marketing Opportunities, 2014

Attractions

The MAKI area hosts a range of visitor attractions, including:

 Campbeltown Museum;

 Kilmartin House Museum of Ancient Culture;

 Auchindrain Trust Highland Farm Township;

 Inveraray Jail, Inveraray Castle;

 Machrihanish Seabird and Wildlife Observatory;

 Knapdale Beaver Trail;

 Paddle Argyll Sea Kayak Trail (launched 2014);

 Crinan Canal;

 RSPB Loch Gruinart Reserve – Islay;

 Museum of Islay Life;

 Islay Natural History Centre;

 Skipness Castle;

 Kilmartin Glen; 138

 Carnasserie Castle;

 Crarae Gardens – Inveraray; and

 Islay Distilleries.

Leisure and Cultural Facilities

Libraries

There are libraries situated in Lochgilphead, Tarbert and Campbeltown, while mobile library vans operate on Mull and across the west Argyll area. Colonsay is part of the island lending service, with books available through a contact on the island.

Cinemas, Theatres and Town Halls

The Picture House in Campbeltown is a community run cinema, although currently closed for refurbishment. It received £1.1 million Heritage Lottery funding in December 2014, and has a temporary programme of events in an alternative venue while undergoing restoration.

Furthermore, the Screen Machine – a fold-out cinema which travels on the back of a lorry – regularly visits a number of locations in the area including Islay, Gigha, Tarbert and Lochgilphead.

Many of the villages and towns across mainland Argyll and Bute and the islands have community halls, most of which are run on a voluntary basis – Figure 5.18. These play an important role in community life and host a wide array of events, sports and social clubs and meetings each week.

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Figure 5.18: Community halls in MAKI

Source: Argyll & Bute Council / Google Maps

Argyll and Bute Council operate the 300 capacity Campbeltown Town Hall and 500 capacity Victoria Hall, also in Campbeltown.

Leisure Centres

There are two public swimming pools in the MAKI area. Aqualibrium in Campbeltown is run by Argyll and Bute Council and includes a 25m pool, gym and sauna. Lochgilphead has both a 20m swimming pool, run by a community trust, and a separate sports facility operated by the local authority. This includes all- weather pitches, a dance studio, gym and sports hall.

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Events

The MAKI area attracts a large number of visitors to special events, many of which are held on an annual basis. This includes:

 Highland Games: Inveraray, Southend (Campbeltown).

 Islay Malt and Music Festival: every May;

 Loch Fyne Viking Festival: Tarbert, June;

 Scottish Series: Scotland’s largest annual sailing event, based in Tarbert, attracting 200 yachts and 1200 crew over a weekend in May; and

 West Highland Yachting Week: across Argyll and Bute, August.

5.4.8 FDI Profile

Argyll and Bute Council is aiming to market the area as an attractive location for screen industry productions.

Multinational companies operating in MAKI include:

 Diageo, which operates three Islay distilleries, Lagavulin, Caol Ila (£3.5m upgrade in 2011) and Port Ellen Maltings;

 Suntory Holdings run the Laphroaig and Bowmore distilleries on Islay;

 RWE nPower run a windfarm in mid-Argyll and a hydro site near Inveraray;

 Wind Towers (Scotland) Ltd is wind turbine plant in Campbeltown with 130 employees. While originally set up by a Danish company, Scottish-owned SSE is now the majority shareholder;

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 Scottish Power (Iberdrola) operate a wind farm in Kintyre;

 E-On operate a wind farm in Kintyre;

 Whyte and Mackay (Emperador Inc.) own Jura Distillery; and

 Marine Harvest runs fish farms across the region.

5.4.9 Retail Sector

Supermarkets

There are Co-operative food supermarkets in Campbeltown, Lochgilphead, Tarbert, Inveraray, Ardrishaig, Bowmore and Port Ellen. There is a Tesco Metro store in Campbeltown and a Tesco Express in Lochgilphead.

Campbeltown Retail Profile

According to a 2010 report, there are 135 units in Campbeltown town centre, of which 20 are vacant. Retail businesses account for 65 units and leisure 13 units30. Plans for a larger Tesco store than currently exists were approved in 2010, but will not go ahead after sale of the proposed site fell through.

In recent years, the Campbeltown Townscape Heritage Initiative has sought to improve the public realm in the town centre, funded by large scale public grants.

5.4.10 Utilities Review

Broadband

OFCOM reports that as of 2013, broadband take-up in Argyll and Bute is 67.3%, with no capacity for superfast broadband31.

30 EKOS, Campbeltown CHORD Report, 2010 31 OFCOM, Fixed Broadband Map 2013, available online 142

Mobile coverage

OFCOM report that 5.6% of premises in Argyll and Bute do not receive a reliable 2G mobile signal from any operator, while 20% do not receive 3G.

There is no 2G mobile signal in 36.5% of the geographical landmass of Argyll and Bute, with 74% of the area unable to receive 3G32.

In early 2015, Ardfern, Ormsary (Knapdale) and Port Askaig (Islay) were shortlisted for the Vodafone Rural Open Sure Signal programme, which will boost local 3G coverage.

Electricity

There has been some concern about the capacity of the National Grid to facilitate renewable energy production in Argyll and Bute – particularly community energy projects in rural areas33. In 2012 it was stated that 10MW of community energy projects were being blocked from coming onto the National Grid due to capacity constraints.

Major construction projects are underway to increase transmission capacity between Argyll and the rest of Scotland, following the growth of renewable projects in the area. SSE is constructing a new high voltage, undersea connection between Kintyre and Hunterston in North Ayrshire. By 2017, the line between Inveraray and Taynuilt is also scheduled to be upgraded.

5.4.11 Community Services and Access

The Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD) ranks small areas, or datazones, against 38 different social and economic indicators, from most deprived to least deprived.

In SIMD 2012, 52% of Mid Argyll, Kintyre and Islay’s datazones are in the 15% most access deprived at a national level, up from 48% in in the 2009 index.

32 OFCOM, Mobile Services Map 2013, available online 33 Long term grid connection delays for community owned renewables in Argyll, 2012, available online 143

This is calculated by measuring each datazone’s access to basic services such as GP, primary school and Post Office34. The most access deprived datazone in the area (ranked 21st in Scotland) covers the south of Islay, excluding Port Ellen.

This section details the location of a number of different amenities and services across the MAKI administrative area:

 Job Centres: there is a job centre operated by the Department for Work and Pensions in Campbeltown;

 Police: the area is policed by the Argyll and West Dunbartonshire division of Police Scotland. There are police offices in Campbeltown and Lochgilphead. There are also smaller unstaffed police offices, including in Furnace, Tarbert and Islay;

 Crime: in the crime domain of SIMD 2012, two (7%) of MAKI’s 29 datazones were among the 15% most crime deprived in Scotland. Both were in the intermediate zone of Campbeltown, with one of ranked 49th and thus among the 5% most crime deprived areas in Scotland. Argyll and Bute as a whole saw a 7% reduction in reported crime from 2012/13 to 2013/14, when there were 330 reported crimes per 10,000 population, the 8th lowest rate in Scotland. There has been a 46% drop since 2004/5, compared to a Scottish average fall of 38%35.

 Courts: a Sheriff Court is located in Campbeltown and a Justice of the Peace court in Lochgilphead;

 Council Offices: public service points are available Lochgilphead, Bowmore, Colonsay, Jura and Campbeltown. There is a planning office in Lochgilphead, with a satellite office in Campbeltown;

 Mountain Rescue: a team based in Oban covers the entire western side of Argyll and Bute, including the MAKI area;

34 Scottish Index on Multiple Deprivation, 2012 35 Scottish Government, Recorded Crime in Scotland, 2013-14 36 Scottish Government, Fire and Rescue Statistics, Scotland, 2013-14 144

 Scottish Fire and Rescue operates stations in the MAKI area in Minard, Inveraray, Tarbert, Carradale, Lochgilphead, Craighouse (Jura), Port Ellen, Bowmore, Port Charlotte, Gigha, Colonsay and Ardfern; and

 Banks: there are a number of banks spread across the MAKI sub-area – Table 5.28.

Table 5.28: Bank branches in MAKI

Location Bank

Campbeltown TSB, RBS, Bank of Scotland, Clydesdale Bank Inveraray RBS, Bank of Scotland Lochgilphead Bank of Scotland, Clydesdale Bank Tarbert Bank of Scotland

Bowmore RBS

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