POLICE say the A8 in Greenock is expected to be closed for the rest of the day following a fire which has gutted a factory.

This morning's blaze at the Mckechnie Jess premises devastated the building and caused travel chaos as the main road was shut down between Gibshill Road and Bogston.

As traffic diverted through residential east end streets, massive tailbacks built up and Greenock very quickly became gridlocked.

Motorists have reported being stuck in queues - in both directions - for over three hours at a time.

It had been hoped that the closure would be lifted this afternoon but now it seems that the rush hour chaos awaits this evening.

Police Scotland said: "Motorists are advised that the A8 Port Glasgow Road in Greenock, between Hamilton Street and Greenock Road, is currently closed to traffic and is expected to remain closed for the rest of the day whilst emergency services attend a fire at a factory to make the area safe.

"Local road diversions are in place but delays are expected. Please plan ahead."

The blaze broke out around 3am and quickly engulfed the building. Fire crews remain on the scene tackling it.