Work will start this week to restore the shopfront of the former M&Co building in Dunoon to its former glory.
The project is part of ɬ Council’s Dunoon Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) and will see the existing paint removed from the building and its original Art Deco symmetry of colour reinstated. The current signage will also be removed and replaced by a bespoke hand painted one which uses colours, graphics and details that reference the period from which the building originates.
Council Leader Jim Lynch, said: “Dunoon CARS has already helped to restore and reinstate many of the town’s historic buildings and this latest shopfront project will have a huge impact on the area.
“This is an impressive 1930s building that was originally built as the La Scala Cinema and it is an important part of the area’s rich heritage which deserves to be preserved. I look forward to seeing the works progress.”
Tim Clark from ZM Architecture who is leading the project said: “The proposed works are generally quite simple in nature, with the colour, arrangement and tiling design all critical in providing a cohesive design that works within the framework of the art deco parent building. Working with and complementing the building will help elevate the shop and make it striking to customers.”
Brian and Gill, owners of Pricewise and Toytastic who have recently moved into the building, said: “The shop will remain open throughout the works but we may need to close intermittently to accommodate the works around the entrance. We will post on our Facebook page when this will be.”
The works are being part grant funded through the Scottish Government’s Place Based Investment (PBI) and will be the 37th Dunoon CARS Shopfront Improvement project that has been completed in the town to date.
Further details of the Shopfront Improvement Scheme can be found on the council website. Details of completed works, including before and after photos can be found at