§ Mrs. Ray MichieTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what is his Department's policy towards the future of south pier in Oban; what representations he has received about the development of the pier; what provision has been made for fishing interests; what expenditure of public funds has been made to date; what further expenditure is planned; what date has been set for the completion of the Oban bay development; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Lang[holding answer 27 July 1989]: The Department has approved those aspects of the Scottish Development Agency's involvement in the Oban waterfront development which are outwith the agency's delegated authority.
My right hon. and learned Friend and I have received a number of representations about the development, some of which have referred to the south pier.
The redevelopment works on the south pier are expected to be completed by the end of this year and the pier will then be transferred to Caledonian MacBrayne, which will in turn lease it to the Oban Port Users Association. The pier will incorporate a new fish hall and offices.
It is estimated that the total value of the development will be around £10 million. Of this, around £3.9 million will be contributed by the public sector. Expenditure to date from public sector sources is around £2 million.
On present plans, the main elements of the development should be completed in time for the 1991 tourist season.
The waterfront project has been developed for the purpose of enhancing the attractiveness of Oban as a major tourism centre and as a gateway to the west Highlands and the Hebrides. The development proposes a multi-purpose leisure facility, specialist shopping facilities, a heritage centre and a hotel. In addition, facilities for the local fishing fleet and for management of ferry traffic will be improved.
It is anticipated that the development will bestow substantial benefits not only to visitors but to the local population through increased economic activity and improved facilities.