DEVELOPERS hoping to install a zipline at Greenock’s Titan crane have revealed that a 35-metre freefall experience is also planned.
Glasgow Arts Centre Ltd has applied for permission to use the historic structure at James Watt Dock as a destination for thrill-seekers, as part of major redevelopment plans for the neighbouring Sugar Sheds.
The zipline would run from the crane the length of the dockside next to the sheds and would be the longest of its kind in the UK.
Documents submitted to Inverclyde planners state that another aspect of the proposal is to install Powerfan automatic belay systems “which provide a thrilling, controlled fall”.
The applicant states: “This would be an attraction in itself allowing visitors to drop down through the middle of the crane tower structure — a vertical drop of approximately 35 metres.”
In support of the whole project, it explains: “These historic assets have been empty and underused for many years, resulting in them becoming more of a burden on the owners and
stewards of these building.
“The proposals enable positive change as a catalyst for the regeneration of Greenock and Inverclyde, by reframing the building and crane as an event destination — similar zipline attractions over the River Clyde have drawn attention and charitable events over many years.
“The proposal re-uses existing structures and buildings. The actual physical interventions will be ‘light touch’ systems that do not damage the historic fabric of the building or crane, and will be able to be removed and returned to their original state.
“The ziplines themselves will have negligible visual impact on the crane, nor will they have any impact on the Sugar Sheds. In the context of the marina, the zip lines will not look out of place when viewed adjacent the rigging and sails of the various boats and yachts.”
The application is pending consideration by council officials.
