Highlands and Islands MSP Donald Cameron has said that decisions about how to spend a £1.1m windfall in Argyll and Bute  must prioritise the long-term sustainability of its coastal communities.

The Scottish Conservative MSP spoke after it was announced that the money would be awarded to Argyll and Bute Council from the Scottish Crown Estate’s marine assets following its first year of devolved management.

Mr Cameron said: “This is good news, especially in the context of the squeeze that public services have experienced in Argyll and Bute following years of unfair financial settlements from  Nicola Sturgeon’s government.

“However it is vital that we listen to the coastal communities and make sure that the money is spent in a way that helps to sustain them over the longer term.”

Mr Cameron, whose constituency office is located in Oban, added: “Oban is just one of a number of communities in Argyll and Bute which could really benefit from investment. I look forward to discussing this funding opportunity with members of Argyll and Bute Council to ensure we gain significant benefits for our constituents.”

Councillor Yvonne McNeilly (Cowal)  added: “The Conservative councillors will be instrumental in ensuring that the money really targets the issues that are important to our coastal communities.

“But we also must keep up the pressure on the Scottish Government for a fairer deal as this £1.1m hardly compensates us for the years of cuts the council has had to cope with.”