Highlands and Islands Scottish Conservative MSP Donald Cameron has joined local councillor, Alastair Redman, in welcoming a financial boost to the Bowmore community on Islay which will make it safer for residents to walk around the village.

Argyll and Bute Council is dedicating £85,000 to improving pavements in Bowmore, following representations from Councillor Redman (Scottish Conservative - Kintyre and the Islands ward) who has been campaigning with Mr Cameron for improvements to be made to the island’s infrastructure.

Mr Cameron said: “I am delighted that despite challenging financial times, the Council has been able to respond in this positive way to the request from Alastair and local residents to improve the pavements in Bowmore, which have been in need of investment for some time.

“It’s important that residents can safely walk around their community without the risk of an unnecessary trip or fall.

“I look forward to seeing the  improvements when I am next on Islay.”

Councillor Redman said: “Given that the Council is struggling to cope with the impact of huge cuts made to its budget by the Scottish Government, it is very satisfying that it has recognised the importance of addressing this matter with extra resources.

“The health and safety of local people must come first.

“However, welcome though this commitment is, I remain concerned about crumbling infrastructure in other communities on Islay like Port Ellen and Portnahaven. Let’s hope we can follow up the good news for Bowmore with some positive announcements for other places which require improvements to be made.”