Work on renovating the iconic International Modernist building to its former glory will start today.

The Grade A listed building will be transformed into a hub for cultural and community use and is expected to employ over 30 people and attract over 70,000 visits per year.

Councillor Gary Mulvaney, depute leader of Argyll and Bute Council and the council’s policy lead for strategic finance and capital regeneration programme, welcomed the announcement.

He said: “It’s fantastic to see the main construction phase of this ambitious project about to get underway and the people of Rothesay can look forward to seeing work on the renovations of the wonderful pavilion starting.

“As a council we are determined to make a real difference to the area by bringing both tourists and new jobs to the area and with our partners have invested millions of pounds to bring our pavilion back to life.

“We will be working closely with the main contractor, CBC, to ensure that wherever possible there are opportunities to provide jobs, apprenticeships and support to the local community.”

The restored pavilion will house a purpose designed exhibition area; shop selling local produce; café/restaurant selling local food and drink; revamped main hall to accommodate a range of events including music, theatre, dance, sports, weddings and various community uses; second venue for smaller performances of music, comedy, family celebrations and community use; new top floor meeting/function room and three new offices and a workhub in the former caretaker’s house at the rear of the site which will provide three independent offices for local businesses along with a shared meeting room and office resources.

James McAlpine, managing director of CBC, said: “We feel very privileged to be working on such a beautiful and iconic building that is so rich in heritage. We are very experienced in conserving historic and listed buildings and look forward to restoring the stunning pavilion to its former glory for the local community.

“We are also committed to ensuring that the people who live on the island feel part of the Rothesay Pavilion project and can contribute to, and reap rewards from, this new chapter in the Pavilion’s history.”

Julia Twomlow, chief executive and artistic director of Rothesay Pavilion Charity, which will operate the facility when it re-opens, added: “Rothesay Pavilion Charity is delighted that the main phase of construction works is about to start. It is going to be wonderful to see the building transform over the coming months and we look forward to working with CBC to ensure that the community are able to engage with the project and benefit from the work and training opportunities it will bring.”