Oban Airport selected for new HM Coastguard base
BBCOban has been chosen as one of two new UK seasonal coastguard helicopter bases.
An aircraft will be stationed at the town's airport between April and September to help provide cover during the summer tourist season.
The base was originally planned for Fort William, but HM Coastguard said the proposed site was no longer viable.
The second seasonal base will be in Carlisle.
Argyll and Bute Council said the airport was "ideally placed" to support the service.
The base will include a hangar, an operational planning room and rest areas for crews.
Construction work has started.
Chief Coastguard Paddy O'Callaghan said: "Our new seasonal bases are a huge step forward in expanding HM Coastguard's search and rescue capability during those periods when we experience a rise in incidents.
"The additional aircraft will provide greater flexibility in a national network, and most importantly enhance our ability to respond quickly to those in need."
