Plans have been approved for a new visitor centre, restaurant and gallery at Greenock Ocean Terminal in Scotland.
The project to create a visitor centre and berthing facility is expected to cost £14.7 million as part of a £1 billion Glasgow City Region City Deal which is funded equally by the Scottish and UK governments.
The facility on the banks of the River Clyde is due for completion in 2020.
It aims to provide a new berthing spot and visitor centre to boost cruise ship passengers using the facility at Greenock operated by Peel Ports.
The plans also include a purpose built gallery celebrating the work of Inverclyde resident and artist George Wyllie and a new restaurant with panoramic views across the Clyde.
It is estimated that more than 150,000 passengers could pass through Greenock Ocean Terminal delivering £26 million in annual visitor and crew spend to the Scottish economy.
Inverclyde Council leader 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.”
David Wilson, Inverclyde planning board convener, added: “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.”
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