A MULTI-million pound blueprint to transform sports facilities in Inverclyde has been backed by councillors.

One of the possible plans for Rankin Park

It is hoped a number of leisure attractions can be improved or created. Proposals include:

-- Replacing Greenock Sports Centre with a new facility at Rankin Park, Greenock. A library and community centre would also be developed. The council is also keeping the option open of a new primary school at Rankin Park.

-- Creating a new high profile synthetic pitch with spectator stand and pavilion at Parklea for use by Port Glasgow Juniors. Changing accommodation at Parklea would also be improved and a business centre is being considered too.

-- Developing a five a-side football centre at either Parklea Playing Fields, Port Glasgow or Rankin Park, Greenock.

-- Upgrading the athletics track at Ravenscraig Stadium, Greenock, and the football pitch there for use by Greenock Juniors. The existing stand would be demolished and a small one built. To held pay for this, Ravenscraig Recreation Centre may be closed.

-- Upgrading of changing facilities at Gourock Outdoor Pool. Other developments such as a restaurant and boardwalk around the riverside of the pool will also be looked at.

-- Upgrading the pavilion at George Road playing fields, Gourock, and the auditorium at Gourock Park.

Councillors also agreed that, in an effort to address the shortage of good sports pitches, estimates are to be sought for the upgrade of the playing pitches at Lady Octavia, Greenock, and Ravenscraig as a matter of urgency.

Cash has been agreed to develop detailed proposals and feasibility work for the next stage of taking the whole plan forward.