The SNP has consigned Argyll & Bute’s high streets to a “death spiral”, Dr Callum George has warned today.
Latest figures show the town centre vacancy rate across Argyll & Bute is 14.2%.
New figures show the number of Scottish retail businesses with at least one employee fell to a 15-year low this year, as did employment within these businesses.
Between 2015 and 2025, both the number of retail employers and the number of jobs they provide have reduced by around a tenth, with more than 900 business and 24,600 jobs being lost over the decade.
The SNP has faced criticism for failing to pass on rates relief to retail businesses in Scotland in previous budgets.
Scottish Labour has pledged to revive local high streets by reforming business rates, delivering fair funding for Argyll & Bute Council and focusing on regional economic growth.
Commenting, Scottish Labour candidate for Argyll & Bute Dr Callum George said, “When doing the Christmas shopping or hitting the boxing day sales, it is impossible to ignore the sorry state of our high streets at this time of year.
“Argyll & Bute’s retailers are essential employers, creating jobs and supporting thriving communities.
“It’s a scandal that 14.2% of shops are lying empty across Argyll & Bute, but this tired SNP government has no answers.
“The SNP has consigned our high streets to a death spiral through unfair business rates and cuts to local services – but this is not as good as it gets.
“A Scottish Labour government will revive Argyll & Bute’s high streets by investing in the local community and reforming business rates to level the playing field between our local shops and the big online giants.”
