PEOPLE in Helensburgh will soon be able to study a wide range of further and higher education courses in the town after Argyll College struck a deal to take over a council-owned community facility in the town.

The education provider is to take over Argyll and Bute Council's Kirkmichael Centre on Buchanan Road, consolidating its presence in Helensburgh and establishing its first stand-alone base in the town.

The building will be utilised for an initial period of two years, with arrangements being in place to allow existing community groups to continue to use the centre.

Argyll College, part of the University of the Highlands and Islands and one of the local authority's key community planning partners, has been looking to increase the provision of educational opportunities in the area for some time, and the council’s community facility fits the bill.

Argyll College UHI’s investment in the Kirkmichael Centre is expected to begin in September this year.

Following the two-year trial, there will be an opportunity for Argyll College to continue the occupation or purchase the building.

Fraser Durie, Principal of Argyll College UHI, said: ‘’We are delighted to be able to significantly expand the presence of the University of the Highlands and Islands in one of Argyll and Bute’s largest conurbations.

“The college is seeking to secure funding for the first two years of operation to allow us to work with local businesses and communities to ensure we offer a curriculum tailored to meet local needs.

“Residents will soon have access to a range of certified further and higher education courses in areas such as business, administration, social sciences, childcare, sport and fitness, and engineering.

“We expect the curriculum offered to expand and evolve as the centre develops and we assess local demand.”

Councillor Aileen Morton, leader of Argyll and Bute Council, added: “We are really pleased that Argyll College UHI will be using the Kirkmichael Centre to expand its presence in Argyll and Bute.

“It’s great news that the building will be used for an educational purpose which will not only benefit local students but the community as a whole.”

The number of council staff at the centre has gradually been reduced as they move to the Helensburgh and Lomond Civic Centre.