Stunning seaside town crowned Scotland’s Town of the Year

A SCOTS town has been crowned Scotland’s Town of the Year after reinventing itself from the gateway to the isles to a must-stay destination.

With its stunning sunsets, views to die for and a community spirit that’s second to none, the locals have always known their town is simply the best.

2

Now years of hard work, by businesses and community groups, have resulted in the transformation of the well-known ferry port’s town centre.

Speaking after Oban’s big win yesterday in the Scotland Loves Local Awards, Andy Spence, Chief Executive of business group BID4Oban, said; “We are beyond delighted that Oban is Scotland’s Town of the Year.

“The reinvention in the town over the last twelve years really has been inspirational. We now have a vibrant town centre, with events that benefit both locals and visitors.

“Oban, like several towns, was tired before the BID (Business Improvement District).

“We were suffering from changes to retail, an ageing demographic, low-end tourism, poor and tired infrastructure and lack of promotion of the town as a destination.

“Through collaborative and partnership working, Oban is now vibrant and welcoming as the gateway to the islands through our major ferry port and the Seafood Capital of Scotland.”

Oban’s win comes in a year when it received a multimillion pound boost after being chosen as a port in the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race, along with big players such as Washington DC and Capetown.

Mr Spence said: “The feedback that was received after the Clipper race was that the organisers, crews and their families thought this was one of the best stopover and host ports anywhere in the world -and the community benefited hugely.”

The BID group has led the transformation by forging new links with businesses, organisations and individuals to make things happen.

The teamwork has ranged from supporting festive lights, and hanging baskets around Oban and sponsoring Oban Pride Weekend, to attracting small cruise ships to visit and playing a key part in attracting the Clipper Race.

STV weather presenter Sean Batty, an ambassador of Scotland Loves Local, joined in the town’s celebrations as he presented the award to community champions in Oban.

He said;’ What strikes me is how passionate everyone here is about their town. It’s easy to see why Oban is so special.

“Every person I have spoken to talks about how it’s the people who make the place and how they’re at the heart of keeping it thriving.

The award is well-deserved recognition for all that they do.”

Independent judges, brought together by awards organiser Scotland’s Town Partnership, had the tough task of selecting the Town of the Year, which was sponsored by tech firm Vicinity.

The Partnership’s chief officer Kimberley Guthrie said: “Oban should wear the Town of the Year crown with pride.

“Its success is such a great example of amazing workmanship to deliver on the community’s vision and ambition.

“This richly deserved award recognises everything that goes on behind the scenes to make all this possible.”

“The community spirit shines brightly on the Information Oban Facebook page which is manned by volunteers.

“It helps the community in so many ways and anyone who loses wallets, cash and other items are repeatedly amazed when the finders get in touch. Anyone who needs help and support only has to ask.”

Tony Cave, Chair of BiD4Oban, said: “The people here are what makes the town successful. We’re all here to help each other. They are what makes me proudest about Oban.

“We used to be known as a place where people went to go to the islands, but now people are seeing it as a place where people come to and stay.”

The west coast port fought off competition from fellow finalists Broughty Ferry, Darval, East Kilbride, and Inverurie to win its title.