Since the Machrihanish Air Force Base became almost derelict in the mid 1990's after the US Air Force returned home, the peninsula of Kintyre has lost considerable inhabitation, not to mention public spending and successful retail and commerce.

Over the last few years it is becoming recognised that the area, along with other areas in Argyll and Bute and also across Scotland are deserving of specific development grants towards redevelopment of what are to be considered sub-standard zones.

Tarbert was one of five coastal locations in Argyll and Bute, to be successful with a grant award of over £900,000 to remove the old boat building (used to store the hovercraft from the 1970s) and to make a number of improvements to the harbour side.

Parking & Pathways

The area around the harbour currently used for parking has been upgraded, now with clearly defined parking areas on a yellowy coloured stone, with a green-grey pathway now clearly visible all around the harbour side for off road walking for pedestrians, this may prove attractive during the summer months particularly when swans are in the inner harbour.

The pathway has also been improved from around the harbour to the castle.

When complete the pathway will be available and run the circumference of the inner harbour from Tarbert Fire Station around to Tarbert Castle and the Loch Fyne Gallery.

Walls & Flower Beds

Three new dry stone walls have been created around the inner most corner of the harbour, the stone work has been professionally carried out and contains flower beds that once in full bloom will add colour and an appeal to the centre of the village. There are also additional walls around the Earra Gael building and seating in these areas to encourage harbourside habitation.

The walls are under 1 metre in height and so planning permission is not required.

New Developments

The demolition of the old boat storage shed is now complete and the land has been levelled out in preparation for the next stage of harbour development.

Consultation is now underway to look into the possibility of further finance and development of harbour side buildings which may include an additional cafeteria, small shops and maybe even self catering flats. Plans are yet to be confirmed and this is ongoing.

These developments are all positive in making Tarbert a more desirable place to visit and stay, however beyond walking, shopping, eating and drinking there is little to attract families for long term stays in the village.