ROTHESAY Pavilion has announced the appointment of a new board of trustees to steer the final phase of the Grade-A listed building’s restoration.
The refreshed board brings together local commitment with international expertise, across sectors spanning the arts, events, tourism, heritage, hospitality and business.
The new trustees are Tom Kelly, professor Gary Kerr, Gail MacKenzie, David McNee, Alistair McIntyre, and Sandra Reid, joining continuing trustees, acting chair David McEntee, Nicola Jones, Tim Saul, and John Thomas.
The pavilion, built in 1938, will reopen as an interdisciplinary, multi-use venue. It will be accessible to people of all ages, allowing it to become a place to come together, learn, celebrate, and create new memories.
Facilities include a 1,000-capacity auditorium with original, sprung wooden dance floor; new exhibition and performance spaces; studios and co-working areas; multi-media resources; a café; retail space; and community garden.
The blend of heritage and modern design will create opportunities for collaboration, learning and participation across generations it is expected to transform the Isle of Bute, enriching lives and strengthening Scotland’s cultural landscape for generations.
Designed in the international modernist style and completed in 1938, the building is undergoing a sensitive restoration led by Robertson Construction. The work is made possible through significant support from major investors – including £4.5 million each from the Scottish and UK governments via the Argyll and Bute rural growth deal.
Additional funding comes from the National Heritage Lottery Fund, Historic Environment Scotland, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, the Robertson Trust, Foyle Foundation, Garfield Weston Foundation, the Wolfson Foundation, the Architectural Heritage Fund, and Argyll and Bute Council.
Julie L Tait, chief executive of Rothesay Pavilion, said, “Rothesay Pavilion is more than a venue; it’s a cherished part of Bute’s cultural life. Its restoration celebrates the island’s heritage while creating space for new ideas, bold events, creative opportunities, and connection. As well as placing Bute firmly back on Scotland’s cultural map, the Pavilion stands as a shining symbol of local ambition and will provide a powerful platform for people, artists, makers, and entrepreneurs once its doors open.
“This new board brings together the right blend of experience, commitment and imagination to see the Pavilion through to completion and ensure it thrives long into the future. Together, we’re building something that will strengthen Bute’s economy, celebrate its identity, and inspire Scotland as a whole.”
David McEntee, acting chair and treasurer of Rothesay Pavilion, added, “This is an important milestone for both the Pavilion and for Bute. We’ve worked hard to put strong foundations in place, so that every investment makes a lasting difference for the island and its people.
“The Pavilion’s reopening will be a catalyst for regeneration, supporting jobs, tourism, and community pride. It’s a privilege to help guide this project towards a sustainable, successful future for everyone who calls Bute home, and for those yet to discover it.”
Councillor Jim Lynch, leader of Argyll and Bute Council, commented, “The Pavilion is central to Bute’s regeneration and will play a major part in Argyll and Bute’s cultural and economic future. The charity’s role is key in transforming the restored Pavilion into a venue that islanders are proud of, a driver of jobs and opportunity, and a destination for visitors across Scotland and beyond. The skills and experience the new trustees bring are welcome. They are joining the charity at an exciting time.”
