COUNCILLORS have backed plans for a new multi-million pound housing development in Gourock.

Inverclyde Planning Board yesterday gave the proposal – for 41 new homes – the go-ahead.

Developer Inverdunning will now build a mixture of two and three-bedroom terrace, detached and semi-detached houses on the former site of the Kempock House residential home in Kirn Drive.

The plans include parking provision for 89-off street spaces in Kirn Drive. The land has lain barren for several years since the home closed. Gourock councillor Terry Loughran put forward the motion to approve the application.

He said: “This is a gap site which has lain empty in Gourock for a number of years and has become overgrown and a bit of an eyesore.

“We have a chance to build new houses for young people and their families to support our schools and provide accommodation to better suit their needs and also to attract people outwith the area.”

As part of attached conditions the developer has agreed to work with a social landlord to build eight flats for rent on a vacant gap site in Shore Street in the town centre.

Cllr Loughran said: “It’s two hits for one kick of the ball, we have the housing in upper Gourock and social rented housing in the lower Gourock in Shore Street.” 

There were 26 representations made to the board, including seven objections, 17 in support and two were neutral.

Issues raised included impact on neighbours, site conditions and traffic issues.

Councillor Innes Nelson also supported the motion, saying: “It’s a good proposal. I like it and the fact that there is a social housing aspect to it as well. From a roads point of view I don’t think the number of houses will make a huge difference.”

Planning convener David Wilson said: “It’s a fabulous application and really encouraging that it’s going to go ahead.”