THE long-awaited replacement for Ravenscraig Hospital in Greenock has finally been given the go-ahead.

Deputy First Minister John Swinney today announced that the project - which will provide a badly-needed modern facility for elderly and dementia patients - will now proceed. The replacement had been delayed due to a red tape wrangle with the European Union over accounting requirements.

The Scottish Government has been working with the UK Government and the EU to resolve the issue, which has also affected other Inverclyde investment projects.

Local MSP Stuart McMillan has welcomed news of the green light for the key project.

He said: “I am delighted with today’s announcement and I’m sure that there will be many relieved people in Inverclyde today.

“The campaign to replace Ravenscraig has had a few twists and turns over the years and the most recent with the funding classification change last year added to them.

“On completion this care home will offer state of the art facilities to those using the facility."

The MSP told the Tele that the news capped a positive week for the district.

He added: “This has been a hugely successful week for Inverclyde with the additional jobs and funding at Ferguson’s, the City Deal announcement for the Greenock Ocean terminal and now today’s excellent news.

“Clearly, the Scottish Government value Inverclyde and what it contributes to Scotland.”