ESSENTIAL conservation work on a much-loved community-run facility on the Rosneath peninsula is now under way.

Cove Burgh Hall will be clad in scaffolding for around four months as experts carry out the 'facade project'.

The small hall and library are out of commission during part of the work, which began on June 17 and is expected to last until around October 21.

Organisers say the work is "about much more than the building".

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A statement on the Cove Burgh Hall Facebook page said: "It is concerned with ensuring the sustainability of a valuable community hub that adds vibrancy and social meaning to the lives of many within the community.

"The cost of phase one is circa £210,000 and, thanks to the incredible efforts of our fundraising team, this has been realised through grant funding from Historic Environment Scotland, Argyll and Islands LEADER Programme, Robertson Trust, Trusthouse Charitable Foundation, plus funds from CBH reserves.

"Given that we are a small charitable organisation, run totally by volunteers, this is an incredible achievement.

"Indeed, working within UK and EU public sector compliance frameworks and processes proved to be challenging, and is a real credit to our fundraising team’s expertise, tenacity and patience!"

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Cove Burgh Hall first opened to the public in 1893 and over the course of more than 125 years it has been home to many of the area's most popular events, as well as hosting regular comedy shows and theatre productions.

The renovation works will comprise comprehensive external fabric repair, incorporating: repointing, clay tile roof works, lead work, stone works, cast iron goods, associated timber repairs and rot works, replacement and refurbishment of timber sash case windows/screens.

The works will also involve internal remedial works; lintel replacement, existing steelwork treatment, splices to first floor joists and insertion of new steel balcony support structure. Internally, the ceiling in the small hall will be replaced allowing for the removal of asbestos.

The entrance hall, main hall, kitchen and toilets will remain in operation throughout the duration of the works.