Lobbying for Connectivity 

As Rothesay Pavilion prepares to reopen in 2027, Bute stands on the cusp of a significant opportunity. With renewed cultural infrastructure, growing national interest and ambitious programming on the horizon, the island is well placed to attract increased visitor numbers –  bringing with it meaningful economic benefit for local businesses and communities.

However, realising this opportunity depends on one crucial factor: connectivity.

Transport – and in particular ferry provision, has long been a challenge for island communities across Scotland. On Bute, limited evening sailings, with final departures often around 7pm, present a significant barrier to both visitors and the development of a thriving evening economy.

The reimagined Rothesay Pavilion will be a significant visitor attraction and multi-use cultural venue, designed to host a broad programme of activity – from live music and performances to ceilidhs, community events and cultural gatherings. While this will first and foremost serve the island’s residents, it also represents a major opportunity to attract visitors from the mainland and beyond.

But without reliable and extended transport options, that opportunity risks being constrained. Visitors must be able to travel to and from the island with confidence – particularly in the evening, if Bute is to fully benefit from its cultural offering.

Julie L. Tait, CEO of Rothesay Pavilion, said: “We know what Bute is capable of – and we’re building something really special with the Pavilion. But infrastructure has to keep pace. This is about making sure people can get here, stay longer, and be part of what we’re creating. It’s vital for the island’s future and for the success of the Pavilion.”

The issue comes at a time when ferry services across Scotland are under increasing pressure, with ongoing operational challenges bringing renewed focus to long-term solutions and investment. With upcoming elections and national attention on transport policy, we have put together a coalition of Bute’s principle commercial, cultural and logistical organisations to ensure we have a strong voice in the conversation.

Bute Commercial and Cultural Alliance

Julie L Tait, Chief Executive, Rothesay Pavilion Charity

Bespoke Hotels / Glenburn Hotel – Mr Michael Newberry, General Manager
Bute BID / Bute Blacksmiths – Mr Duncan Martin, Chair Bute BID & Director Bute Blacksmiths
Bute Fabrics Ltd – Mr Simon Cotton, Managing Director
Bute Ferry Committee – Mr Robert Kennedy
Bute Highland Games – Mr Billy Shields, Chair
Bute Yard – Ms Cathleen Crichton Stuart, Director
Hanson Building Contractors – Mr George Hanson, Director
Mackirdy Haulage – Mr Jack Mackirdy, Director
Mount Stuart Trust – Ms Sophie Crichton Stuart, Chair
Rothesay Pavilion Charity – Mr Tim Saul, Acting Chair

Michael Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association, added: “If we want new venues and cultural spaces to succeed, we have to think about how people access them, especially in the evening. Transport is fundamental to building a sustainable night-time economy and ensuring audiences can fully engage.”

Rothesay Pavilion is actively engaging with policy makers, partners and stakeholders to ensure that transport and connectivity are prioritised alongside cultural regeneration. This is about more than access. It’s about enabling growth, supporting livelihoods, and ensuring that both residents and visitors can fully experience everything Bute has to offer.

We will continue to share updates as this work progresses.