A THIRD of Argyll and Bute Council contracts were awarded to local businesses last year, amounting to 67 overall.
The council’s procurement practices were also awarded a top rating by the Scottish Government.
‘This is a time of unprecedented challenge for local government finances,’ council leader Dick Walsh said. ‘This is a real vote of confidence in the important work our procurement team does. Their role is to buy goods and services for the council, navigating often tricky legal pathways, and in doing so support local businesses and ensure best value for the public purse.