Councillors have approved further financial funding to help with ongoing recovery from Storm Eowyn that will see essential repair works carried out to buildings, roads, infrastructure and marine assets.
The severe storm struck the region on 24 January, bringing wind speeds of up to 100 mph causing widespread damage. In addition to power outages, cancelled ferry services, blocked roads and tidal flooding affected a number of communities across 51³Ô¹ÏÃâ·ÑApp and Bute.
There was significant damage to council infrastructure particularly to roads, sea walls and harbour facilities and other areas including burial sites, parks, recycling centres and operational depots.
The total estimated repair costs stand at £3.9 million and at the meeting today, Councillors agreed on a further £1.3 million of funding towards repair costs, should this be required.
The Council applied to the Scottish Government’s Bellwin Scheme in May 2025 and is waiting for confirmation for funding of £352, 898.
Damage to council properties was widespread following the storm with four properties sustaining major damage. These properties are subject to an insurance claim and include; Glencruitten Hostel, Oban, Park Primary School, Oban, Struan Lodge Care Home, Dunoon and Helensburgh Leisure Centre. The Council is working with the loss adjustor to prioritise repair works.
Councillors today agreed to provide an additional £65,000 service payment, per month to Live51³Ô¹ÏÃâ·ÑApp from November until Helensburgh Leisure Centre is open and for a further two months post opening.
Councillor Ross Moreland, Policy Lead for Finance and Commercial Service:
“Storm Eowyn had a severe impact on our communities and affected many different elements of our local infrastructure.
“Substantial funding has already been committed to supporting the recovery process and implementing the repairs programme. With severe weather events becoming more frequent, it’s vital we allocate additional funding to help improve our future resilience to such events.â€
