Oban Times Letters to the Editor - 5.9.24

Open letter over Argyll roads

I am writing to you in my capacity as the Independent councillor for the Kintyre and the Islands ward to express profound concerns regarding the deteriorating state of our road infrastructure. 

This issue significantly impacts the quality of life for our residents and the operational effectiveness of a diverse range of local stakeholders, including small to medium-sized businesses, crofters, farmers, fishermen, and health and social care workers, as well as our world-renowned distilleries.

The Kintyre and the Islands ward contributes substantially to the local and national economy, particularly through these varied sectors. 

Despite this considerable economic contribution, there is a palpable imbalance between the revenue generated from our area and the public spending allocated to us. This disparity is increasingly evident in the state of our roads.

Furthermore, the challenges posed by our aging ferry fleet can only exacerbate our infrastructure woes. These factors collectively hinder not only daily commutes but also affect tourism and local commerce severely, which are vital to our community’s prosperity.

Given these points, I urge you to advocate vigorously for increased funding to address these pressing issues. It is imperative that we secure adequate resources to maintain and enhance our road networks to reflect the economic output and potential of our ward.

I insist on the necessity of contacting the Scottish Assembly to implore them to properly fund our local authorities to mitigate these long-standing issues. Our community deserves a commitment to infrastructure that matches our contribution to the country’s economic health.

Thank you for your attention to this critical matter. I am keen to discuss this further and explore all possible avenues to facilitate the improvements our ward urgently requires.
Councillor Alastair Redman, Kintyre and the Islands Ward.

Parking at Glencoe Lochan

I went up for a walk round Glencoe Lochan on July 22 and found parking charges have recently been imposed with no apparent warning and quite obscure notices. 

I went for a walk as usual and only became aware of the notice when I got back to the car park. I then had to find a pen and paper to take a note of the contact details for paying for the parking. I had to join an app to make payment. 

Unfortunately you have to have a mobile phone to do this. I do not have one. I tried the phone number and it was unavailable. Thus I am unable to make any payment as there is no address to send payment to.

There should be clear signs at entrances warning you that you can only park there if you have a mobile phone. 
Mike Breslin, by email.