FULL Steam Ahead For Landmark Cruise Passenger Attraction At Greenock
PLANS have been approved for an iconic cruise ship terminal building on the banks of the Clyde at Greenock.
Inverclyde planning board today gave the go-ahead for a visitor centre, restaurant and gallery at the Waterfront car park, beside Greenock Ocean Terminal.
The overall project, led by Inverclyde Council, is part of the Glasgow City Region City Deal and includes a new berthing facility to increase the number of cruise ships the Peel Ports facility can handle.
It is estimated that more than 150,000 passengers could pass through Greenock Ocean Terminal each year delivering £26million in visitor and crew spend to the Scottish economy.
The purpose-built gallery will celebrate the work of artist George Wyllie (1921-2012) and the restaurant will have panoramic Clyde views.
| More about the planning application in previous story
Inverclyde Council leader councillor Stephen McCabe said: “The aim of the project is to boost the capacity at Greenock Ocean Terminal for cruise ships. The addition of a restaurant and Wyllie Gallery will help to provide a year-round attraction for visitors to Greenock and Inverclyde at this iconic building on the banks of Clyde.
“As a key City Deal project, the new visitor centre at Greenock Ocean Terminal aims to make a significant contribution to economic growth and international tourism across the wider city region area.”
Councillor David Wilson, Inverclyde planning board convener, said: “This is a welcome application and one for which the board were wholehearted in their approval. Inverclyde has a great deal to offer the visitor, whether coming to Scotland by cruise ship from all over the world or visiting from other parts of the United Kingdom. The new visitor centre, gallery and restaurant will enhance the offer to domestic and overseas visitors.
“The economic value of the cruise ship sector to Scotland is a key part of this project and its value to the country, particularly with the potential to substantially grow in future years, should not be underestimated.”
The Wyllie Gallery will showcase the life and work of the artist and will also stage important exhibitions and events celebrating contemporary artists from across Scotland and further afield.
The £14.7million visitor centre, designed by award-winning Richard Murphy Architects, is scheduled for completion in 2020.
