Part owned by Argyll and Bute Council and MacLeod Construction Ltd, the site will be split into five zones to be developed for industrial, business, tourism and community use.

The masterplan provides a structured approach to creating a clear and consistent framework for development.

The first zone, to the north-west of the site, partly hidden from view, has been identified for industrial, office, storage and distribution developments. Zone two is to the east of the site, on higher ground, with high-quality business and possibly light industrial two storey buildings in the agreed plan.

The third zone is the gateway into the park, with the development plan including single storey business and tourism uses, around a welcoming courtyard feature. Fourth of the zones is in the middle of the site, next to the site’s main spine road, and will allow for zones two and three to expand, with mixed uses identified, ranging from light industry to storage and distribution.

The final zone is a large area to the north-east of the site and has been set aside for community use, although it is too early to say exactly what that will be. It is proposed that the site be developed over seven phases, with the first being the initial access road off the A83 and a small industrial unit in zone four.

If planning applications come forward for the type of developments identified in each zone there is a presumption that it will be approved, although each application is determined on its own merits.

Angus Gilmour, head of planning and regulatory services at Argyll and Bute Council, said: “This is great news for the local area. We’re very pleased that MacLeod Construction, helped with funding from the council and Highlands and Islands Enterprise, brought this masterplan forward.

“We’re delighted that there is now an agreed development vision in place for this site. This is a real good news story for the area and will allow for the site to be developed in a logical way which benefits everyone.

“The overall focus of the council’s planning service is 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 the best fit for all.”

Fergus Murray, Argyll and Bute Council’s head of economic development, said: “This is a great example of the public and private sectors working together to create jobs. The council has worked closely with MacLeods as they have developed their proposals and we are delighted the project now has the go-ahead.

“We will continue to support MacLeods as they press ahead with their developments, offering any advice and support we can. Our main aim is economic growth, creating jobs and attracting people to the area and projects like this are very welcome.

“This strategic framework will enable the type of job-creating developments that we all want to see.”

Murdo MacLeod, managing director of MacLeod Construction Ltd, added: “We are delighted that Lochgilphead will now have an industrial estate that we can expand in partnership with the council and bring more people into the area. We’re very keen to create an industrial and business park to ensure there are jobs for people to move into and indeed stay in the area. This is a big move forward for Mid-Argyll.”