As we look ahead to our 2027 opening, we’re seeking Trustees, Champions, and Stewards.

Photo credit: Multivista

The Rothesay Pavilion has begun the final phase of its major restoration, with work now underway to see this iconic building reopen its doors in 2027. After years of effort, funding challenges, and a few unexpected hurdles – like the pandemic, and a spiralling cost crisis – we’re finally at the start of the last big push to opening.

This isn’t just about renovating an old building; it’s about discovering and preserving a unique piece of Scots heritage for future generations. It’s about bringing a slice of Bute’s history back to life and enhancing the island’s modern appeal, creating an inspiring place for everyone to enjoy.

Where are we now? Where are we heading ? And how do we get there, together?

The Pavilion is buzzing with new activity. Contractors, the Robertson Group are on sitehaving tackled critical jobs like the roof and external structural repairs first. This final phase, when work moves inside, is thanks to funds secured from the UK and Scottish Government, owners Argyll and Bute Council, and partners the National Heritage Lottery Fund, Historic Environment Scotland, and Highlands and Islands Enterprise. It’s a solid foundation that recognises the Pavilion’s national significance, tourism appeal and stronghold for community wealth building on Bute.

That’s where the next steps – and all of us – come in.

By 2027, the vision is clear: a reopened Pavilion that’s a hub for culture, community, and opportunity for new business and creative enterprise. Think live music, exhibitions, workshops, talks, a flexible range of workspaces for business and all manner of events andfestivals that celebrates Bute while creating jobs and drawing visitors. It’s about the place where kids can see and try new things, creative businesses can grow, and we can all gather – rain or shine. But to get there, we need more people, specifically, a strong team of Trustees, Champions and Stewards to get to the finish line and the start of something truly special.

Trustees (as of October 2025 board recruitment is complete)

First, we’re adding to our Charity Board of Trustees. We’re looking for folks with skills and experience across a range of disciplines (including: heritage; creative industries;hospitality; technical production and event management; marketing; legal and commercial development) who can advise, plan, and keep things on track. These aren’t just figureheads, they’ll roll up their sleeves and help shape what the Pavilion becomes.

Champions

Alongside our new Trustees, we need champion influencers – creative industry, media and local voices who can spread the word about the Pavilion and help get people from far and wide excited and engaged.

Stewards

Pavilion Stewards – individuals on or off the island who can’t commit to the time needed as a Trustee but have invaluable skills and experience, believe in what the Pavilion can achieve, and want to help make a difference. Stewards will pitch in when they are available and can contribute meaningfully to the Trustees and the Pavilion leadership on this groundbreaking project.

A Whole Community Working Together

This is the start of a new stage, and it’s all about working together. Over the next year, we’ll roll out projects and initiatives, workshops, open days, or even a chance to glimpse inside, soevery corner of our community can have a say and get involved.

Rothesay Pavilion has had its fair share of hurdles to cross along the way as ambitious projects like this often do, but with the end in sight, being open about the challenges and inviting people in, we can make the Pavilion something we’re all proud of. This is our chance to build something lasting, let’s do it together.

Want to get involved?