The original idea for Dunoon Project was born in 2017.

Well respected members of the local community were approached to see if they would like to become part of this amazing project as volunteers. Generous local benefactors then paid for expert legal advice to support the setting up of a company to represent the community’s aspirations. The Dunoon Project Ltd (DPL) formally came into being in April 2019, and became a charity in December that year.

To make sure that the project had the best possible chance of success, a very experienced volunteer Advisory Group was recruited to help and support the Directors of DPL. This group is made up of both local people and renowned, respected individuals representing a range of sectors and specialisms. They combine deep expertise and insight, and share a passion for Dunoon and its future.

The excellent working relationship between the DPL Directors and the Advisory Group gave Dunoon Project solid foundations from which to grow.

Engagement with the Cowal community was an immediate success – various information events were held in the town which resulted in very positive responses.

Local schools were involved with the project from an early stage too. One of the central ambitions of Dunoon Project is to inspire local youngsters, and pupil participation provides opportunity for their ideas to be heard. A Junior Advisory Board was created at Dunoon Grammar School, giving the young people there a real say in this important project.

The Covid-19 pandemic slowed but didn’t halt progress on the Dunoon Project, with meetings and ideas development continuing. As Scotland emerged from lockdown, the purchase of the Glenmorag Hotel land by members of the community allowed the Project to progress to the next level. A further development was the contracting of Stantec (formerly known as Barton Willmore) to develop a Dunoon Project Masterplan.

With support from Forestry and Land Scotland, Argyll and Bute Council, Highland and Islands Enterprise and the UK Government, funding was obtained to allow the creation of a professional Dunoon Project working group. This working group provided necessary expertise across various aspects of the Project and offered invaluable support to the volunteer Directors. The working group continues to drive Dunoon Project forward.