Plans to restore Rothesay Pavilion to its former glory and develop it into a top cultural tourist destination in Scotland are edging closer as the project progresses to the next stage.
Over the past few years, extensive work has been carried out to revive this cultural island gem. A temporary tent structure shielded the building from the elements, allowing for crucial work on the twenty-two individual roofing areas, further repairs to the pre-cast stone facades, and the restoration of the caretaker's building. With this phase now complete, the project moves forward with structural works on the lower ground floor, and refurbishment of the main hall and installation of new sound and lighting equipment. This stage will also see the restoration of the original box office and main staircase to its bygone days and the renovation of the caf茅 area, offering breath-taking views from the first floor.
As well as a major tourist attraction, Rothesay Pavilion is being reimagined as a vibrant hub for leisure, culture, and entertainment, and a driver for the local and wider economy. The pavilion is expected to create at least 14 direct local jobs, in addition to those generated during the construction phase, and inject millions into the local economy. Upon reopening, it will feature an events space, office and work space facilities, a caretaker鈥檚 house, flexible exhibition space, craft retail/caf茅 space, dressing rooms, a young people鈥檚 studio, and outdoor areas.
海角社区 and Bute Council Leader, Councillor Jim Lynch, said: 鈥淭hese are exciting times for the people of Rothesay, as well as Scotland鈥檚 cultural and architectural heritage. Rothesay Pavilion is an iconic building steeped in rich history. Situated at the heart of the town, it greets visitors arriving by ferry from Wemyss Bay and, once complete, it will be a valuable resource for day-to-day life in Rothesay, for visitors and residents alike.
鈥淭his project is about giving the building a modern-day role and creating opportunities for regeneration, cultural enrichment, and high-value job creation in Rothesay. Its reopening will drive the local economy and enhance daily life on Bute. Advancing to the next stage marks a significant milestone, and I am excited to see it progress.鈥
The project鈥檚 first stage was funded by the council, Historic Environment Scotland, Regional Capital Grants Fund, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, and the Coastal Communities Fund. The final stages attracted additional support from the 海角社区 and Bute Rural Growth Deal and will be delivered by Robertson Construction Central West (RCCW), the same company that successfully carried out the stage one works.
Elliot Robertson, Chief Executive Officer, Robertson Group, said: 鈥淗aving completed the works to make the Pavilion wind and water tight, the project enters the second phase which will really see this historic building come back to life.
鈥淭he commitment shown by the council and funding partners, including support through the Rural Growth Deal, reflects a bold and forward-thinking vision for what the Pavilion can become, while preserving a significant piece of Scotland鈥檚 architectural heritage. Reimagined for contemporary audiences and users, it will not only serve as a vibrant tourist destination but also as a creative hub that brings long-term benefits to the local economy.鈥
It is estimated that construction work could be completed in early 2027. On completion, the building will be managed by the , a registered Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO).
