THE first phase of a £45m makeover to transform a former oil-rig construction yard into one of Scotland's most prestigious tourist destinations was unveiled in Argyll yesterday.
The Portavadie Marina Complex, on the south-east shores of Loch Fyne, was officially opened by Enterprise Minister Jim Mather.
He welcomed it as a "further boost to the local economy", adding: "This marina development will really put Portavadie on the sailing map."
Built on the site of a 1970s oil-rig construction yard, which was never used, Portavadie Marina's designers want to revitalise the site as a hub for hillwalkers and sailing enthusiasts.
The state-of-the-art resort currently boasts 230 fully serviced berths that can accommodate almost any size of boat. The complex also includes offices, functions suites, a bar and restaurant, and a high-level viewing terrace where visitors can overlook the marina from a series of interlinking glass and stone buildings.
"Portavadie is unlike any other marina, not just on the Clyde coast but beyond, throughout Britain," said Brian Stewart, architect for the project. "We have tried to create something special, a landmark building which has more of a Mediterranean feel to it rather than a traditional British marina."
Owner Portavadie Estates has so far spent around £18m on the first phase of the development.
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