Argyll and the Islands Enterprise (AIE) have announced they are investing £150,000 in the new orientation and tourist information centre in Bute, which is hoped will attract more repeat visits and encourage visitors to stay longer.

The new facility will be housed in Rothesay's Winter Gardens, a landmark 'A' listed iron and glass building situated on the town's seafront. A restaurant and cinema already occupy part of the Winter Gardens and the orientation and tourist information centre will be located in the main auditorium and foyer area. Argyll, the Isles, Loch Lomond, Stirling and the Trossachs Tourist Board (AILLSTTB) recently purchased the building from the Winter Garden Trustees and will operate the centre.

Argyll and Bute Council is also providing funding support for the £466,000 (pounds) project and bids for further financial support are currently being considered by the Highlands and Islands European Partnership and Scottish Natural Heritage.

The orientation centre will provide visitors arriving on the island with information on activities, places of interest and accommodation and will use video, interpretation and interactive areas to tell the story of the island's heritage.

Bute is a high priority area for AIE with above average, sustained unemployment. This project however, secures three full-time jobs and is set to create a further two.

Ken Abernethy, chief executive at AIE said: "We are working hard with other partners to raise the profile of Bute as a quality holiday destination for outdoor activities and special interests. Considerable investment has been made in the development of new and existing paths and on the spot interpretation. The orientation and tourist information centre, which is in a prime location, will complement the work carried out over the years.

"Tourism initiatives are an important part of AIE's strategy and projects which enhance the overall visitor experience are the key to a successful tourist industry."

Tourist Board chief executive, James Fraser said: "I am delighted AIE has agreed to join forces with the Board and Argyll and Bute Council to provide strong financial backing for this flagship project which is designed to help visitors to the Isle of Bute make the most of their visit by showcasing the wonderful attractions the island has to offer.

"We are eagerly awaiting the outcome of other funding bids and hope to be in a position to get underway with the convertion work in January with a target completion date of April 2001."

Argyll and Bute Council depute leader, Councillor Campbell Cameron said: "This important project is yet another example of public agencies working in partnership and building on the regeneration which has been going on in Rothesay for a number of years. This new facility will also secure the future use of the Winter Gardens, as well as providing a solid base for dispersing tourists around Bute and indeed elsewhere in Argyll."

The creation of the new centre follows on from such projects at the West Island Way, a long distance walking trail providing enjoyment for walkers at every ability level, and the recent upgrading work of a number of accommodation providers on Bute.