A CAMPAIGNING councillor wants Port Glasgow town centre to cash in on the nearby new retail park - by attracting more traders to fill empty shops.
Drew McKenzie, pictured, who owns a butcher's in the town, is determined to capitalise on the new shoppers who will be attracted to it.
The local businessman and elected member says there has never been a better time to seize the opportunities that are opening up.
Councillor McKenzie, who has been campaigning for investment in the town centre for more than 10 years, said: "Port Glasgow is now the dominant shopping centre with the new retail park. 
"We have to find ways to get the shoppers into the town centre. 
"There has never been a better time to open up in Port Glasgow and I can help - I know where to go to get information and support.
"There is funding available so I am saying to people to get in touch with me on 07967 398721 and I will see what I can do to help.
"We want to fill the empty units."
Councillor McKenzie says he is pleased that work is under way on the new slip road which will link the A8 with the town centre.
He said: "We asked for one when they first building the Tesco store but we were told you couldn't have five slip roads off a roundabout.
"Now someone thinks it is a good idea and there you go, it is happening.
"We have managed to get money spent on the town centre but I don't think that would have happened if we hadn't shouted for it."
Around 14 per cent of units in the town centre are still empty and Mr McKenzie wants to change that.
He said: "I don't think we need any more betting shops, fast food places or hairdressers.
"We are looking for independent type places.
"The town centre is busy during the week but it quietens down on a Saturday."