A total of £19 million will be invested in the construction project making a significant contribution to employment opportunities in the local area.

Associated infrastructure and new road access at Ardyne Point, as well as a masterplan which will guide the future development of the area, were also approved by councillors.

Once the site becomes operational it is expected that it will support 150 jobs directly and around 180 indirectly, adding over £7m to the Argyll and Bute economy.

Councillor David Kinniburgh, chair of the council’s planning committee, said: “We wholeheartedly support this development; it will be a great boost to the economy of South Cowal in particular and Argyll and Bute in general. A particularly important feature is the masterplan which identifies potential future developments in the wider Ardyne Point area.

“The plan is flexible but includes areas for tourism, business, leisure, housing, marine and aquaculture developments. Masterplans are key documents which describe and map an overall development concept, providing a clear and consistent framework which ensures future projects complement each other. This site can now be developed in a sensible and sustainable way, benefiting both developers and the wider community.

“The council’s planning service is focussed on making things happen, supporting sustainable economic growth and regeneration. This is another demonstration of our open for business approach, working with developers to ensure a best fit for all.”