Argyll launches business fund to halt population decline

Argyll and Bute Council has established a £500,000 fund to encourage people and businesses to move to the area which is suffering from population loss.

The money will go to help businesses, young people and young families who are relocating or returning to the area.

A report by council officials said economically-active young people aged 18 and over could apply for a rent subsidy of up to £5,000 while small and medium-sized businesses would be eligible for up to a total of £10,000, split between a grant and relocation package.

Economically-active young families relocating to the region would be in line for £5,000 made up of a relocation package and council tax subsidy.

Councillors approved the Rural Resettlement Fund (RRF) at a meeting yesterday.

Councillor Aileen Morton said: “Argyll and Bute is recognised as being one of the most promising areas in Scotland, we want people to come here and by promoting the fund we are letting everyone know that there is help available to take up career opportunities or build a successful business here.”