The council has appointed architects Anderson Bell + Christie to lead the transformation of the former Hill Street office.

The new facility, the first of its kind in Argyll and Bute will boast state-of-the-art digital technology and help young people looking to enhance their STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) skills. It will be available for use by students in schools and colleges with meeting and workspace for STEM-related community and business activity.  

Currently, the nearest location for young people looking to develop their expertise in STEM subjects is Glasgow.

The design team is developing plans on how to reconfigure the building’s interior into a training hub with science labs, work stations and meeting spaces.

Funding partners include the Clyde Mission Fund, Crown Estate Scotland and Argyll and Bute Council.

There will be opportunities to comment on the proposed designs as part of the planning application process. The application will be available on the council website later in spring 2022.

Construction will start in summer 2022, subject to planning consent.

Councillor Robin Currie, policy lead for the economy and rural growth, said: “Dunoon is leading the way with this first STEM facility for Argyll and Bute. Developing an easy to access local Hub will help young people develop their computer, digital and technical skills and build on future career ambitions.

“STEM subjects form an important part of our everyday lives and, as our young people grow, there will be an increased demand for industry professionals in these subjects. We are committed to providing the best start possible for our young people and want to create job opportunities that harness homegrown talent and expertise.

“The Dunoon STEM Hub is our pilot project with anticipated further Hubs created across Argyll and Bute, as part of the Rural Growth Deal.”