THE owner of one of Inverclyde’s most popular bar-restaurants says he’s excited by a planned £150,000 expansion of it — and is here to stay.

Glasgow businessman Gregg McLeod, pictured right with Cafe staff member Laurie McGilp, believes there is massive potential in the Cafe Continental, Kempock Street.

His plans involve opening up the top floor with a new dining area and roof terrace.

The application lodged with the council is part of an ambitious blueprint for the future of the premises, which he took over 18 months ago.

The former owner of city centre nightspot Sub Club believes there are ‘huge opportunities’ in Gourock and has revealed that he is considering expanding his interests here.

Mr McLeod said: “I honestly think that Gourock has the biggest opportunities outside of Glasgow.

“The town has so much going for it and so much that could be tapped in to. 

“It is a big draw.

“That is why I invested here, and it is a long-term investment.

“I am here for the long term — it is why I am expanding the Cafe Continental.

“It is a great place with a great atmosphere. We have never had to ask anyone to leave since I have been here.”

The Glasgow man has owned a number of clubs and pubs, including the Black Sparrow at Charing Cross, Clockwork in Mount Florida and Church on the Hill in Battlefield as well as Sub Club. The owner says the Cafe’s success has flown in the face of the economic downturn.

He added: “Since 2010 the Cafe Continental has increased turnover.”
But he believes that more investment in the town would help businesses like his own.

He said: “Gourock has a community and town to be proud of.

“I would like to see even more investment in tourism.

“There really is huge potential here.”