A BRAND new council depot has opened in Greenock.

The recycling centre, salt barn and state-of-the-art garage at Pottery Street is home to around 200 staff involved in frontline service delivery.

The council’s vehicle fleet is being serviced and maintained in a purpose-built garage at the new facility.

Councillor Michael McCormick, who is the environment and regeneration convener, says the new depot is the latest phase in a £10m development at Pottery Street and will make a huge difference.

He said: “It makes sense to bring frontline services to one central location. 

“It means they can be better co-ordinated and react quicker when needed. 

“It also allows us to make more efficient use of facilities and resources and to dispose of surplus properties, which clearly has a financial benefit to the council. 

“These services are very much at the sharp-edge of what the council delivers to our communities on a daily basis, which is why we are making such a significant investment to ensure they run as smoothly and efficiently as possible.”

The council’s refuse collection, fleet maintenance staff and transport services also operate out of the new facility and all employees have access to changing facilities, drying areas and a new canteen.

Further development of the site includes fuel storage and distribution facilities, a vehicle wash and a facility for gully waste, while the former vehicle deport has been refurbished to house both grounds maintenance and roads employees.