Dunoon Pier - Protect this much loved, but underused historic asset from climate change by bringing it back into use as a bike, water and people-oriented transport hub and cultural venue for the town.

According to Historic Scotland, Dunoon Pier is ‘the best surviving example of a timber ferry pier in Scotland.’  Owned by Argyll and Bute Council, this Grade A listed structure is a nationally important building. However, climate change and the ongoing costs of repairs mean this building is at risk.  

An unclear booking system for use of the pier building and a lack of heritage interpretation about the structure mean that the Pier is underused as a community and visitor asset.  

Recently Dunoon Community Development Trust has been leading a partnership approach to explore the regeneration of Dunoon Pier with Argyll and Bute Council with the aim of identifying sustainable solutions to the management and use of the pier. With the support of external funding, part of the pier building has been effectively used for bike repair workshops and activities linked to active travel. These activities have helped to test an approach to fundraising, building use and management to inform longer-term solutions. 

Local Place Plan 

• Continue the partnership approach between Argyll and Bute Council and Dunoon Community Development Trust to progress funding for a full technical survey, feasibility study, business plan and investment strategy for the Pier. 

• Consider new approaches to using the structure as a community facility and income generating visitor asset, including water sports, community space and event hire for all aspects of the structure. 

• Improve heritage interpretation across the pier site and improve the use of windows in the ticket office for the communication of travel and active travel information. 

Community Action Plan 

• Argyll and Bute Council to work with community partners to improve the room booking system for the pier with a simple digital interface that is marketed effectively through local channels. 

• Review current operational approaches and policies relating to the use of the pier as a venue.  

• Host a meeting with community stakeholders to consider how the pier can be developed and managed as a community asset. 

• Consider locating a sustainable bike project for the town in the pier for community benefit and to provide visitors with access to bike and active travel options.