Following the article in the Helensburgh Advertiser on August 13 – which included calls for the public to be consulted on the naming of the building – Argyll and Bute Council has invited suggestions for propose names for the offices over the next two weeks.

Billy Petrie, former provost and Freeman of Argyll and Bute, said he was ‘delighted’ the public will be consulted on the name of the new building following controversy over the choice of sculpture on the front.

He added: “I’m absolutely delighted as long as there’s consultation because had there been consultation on the sculpture, the problem would not have arisen.

“I’m also very grateful to the Advertiser for raising the issue and the Advertiser must be thanked for showing that initiative.

“It’s now come about that the council have recognised the need for consultation and for that I’m very grateful.” Councillor Gary Mulvaney, chair of Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee, has also backed a public consultation.

He said: “This building is set to play a key part in the civic and community life of people in Helensburgh, for people who choose it as a wedding venue, for community groups who use it for recreation purposes and for people who use the council services it houses.

“The council therefore invested in and will deliver a high quality venue.

“We are working with all parties involved to ensure that Helensburgh gets a venue that is enjoyable for all to use and that the community can be proud of.” Councillor Vivien Dance – who previously said she thought the public should be consulted – said she looks forward to everyone’s suggestions.

She added: “It’s good that the council’s decided to pull it in this way after the suggestions from the public so I’m pleased about that.” However, Councillor James Robb said the name would most likely be nicknamed locally.

He said: “As long as it is not something daft or self-aggrandisement by the council or councillor I think most people couldn’t care less what it is officially called.

“It will be the council offices or Clyde Street School for most of us.” The building will provide a one-stop-shop for key council services, space for community groups as well as a stunning marriage suite for couples, families and friends to celebrate their special days.

It also contains a café, gallery and meeting rooms while there are landscaped grounds open for public use, including an outdoor events and marriage area, and a community garden.

The public is being asked to put forward their ideas for the whole building or any of the three key parts, including the council service delivery section, the community use space, or the marriage suites.

Addressing the public, Cllr Mulvaney, said: “This is your new building with all its facilities – and we hope you will share your ideas with the council.” Anybody who wishes to submit their ideas should email press@argyll-bute.gov.uk no later than Friday, September 11.