TWO prospective buyers have come forward to express interest in saving Texas Instruments.

The news was highlighted at the latest meeting of the taskforce set up to keep the factory open.

The factory owners announced earlier this year that they planned to close it down in phases over a three year period.

Council leader Stephen McCabe, who chairs the taskforce, said: “With the Texas Instruments Greenock plant being actively marketed, there have been two businesses interested in examining the site.

"This is very hopeful news that there is some interest being expressed by potential buyers within the industry."

But Mr McCabe also stressed that a note of 'caution is clearly required'.

He said: "This is a very specialised industry with a limited number of businesses operating globally."

The latest meeting of the taskforce also heard that work continues to support the 365 workers who face losing their jobs if the plant shuts down as planned and no saviour can step in.

Mr McCabe added: "It continues to be very positive to hear that Texas Instruments themselves are continuing to support employees. In addition to the plant itself, the skilled workforce is another thing that makes the potential sale of the facility attractive to a buyer.”

Marketing material being used to promote the site to potential buyers highlights the assets it has. The current facility was built in 1987 and was originally established by National Semiconductor before being acquired by Texas Instruments in 2011.

The 23-acre site includes four buildings.