GOUROCK Fire Station is no longer under threat of closure.

Stations in the Inverclyde area were recently put under review and officials had said they couldn't guarantee that the stations would be safe from the axe.

But at a meeting of the Local Police and Fire Scrutiny Sub-Committee on Thursday, new senior officer Graeme Binning announced that Gourock would stay open - and get a new engine next year.

Mr Binning told the committee: "The good news is the future of Gourock Fire Station is secured with a new appliance coming online.

"We are in a strong position and there are no plans to close stations or reduce crew levels."

The station's second fire engine is due to be replaced and all the current staff will be retained, with Mr Binning stating the 'crew of 18 would not be reduced'.

The meeting also heard that 108 new firefighters are set to start in the wider area soon, with some being sent to Inverclyde.

It also saw councillors approve their formal response to Scottish Fire and Rescue's 'Your Service Your Voice' consultation.

The response opposed any closure of the three existing community stations in Inverclyde.

Committee chair Councillor Jim Clocherty said: "I think everyone from Gourock would welcome the statement today."

Speaking after the meeting he told the Tele: "I welcome the investment in the Gourock station and the assurance that the team will remain in place.

"We wish, as a council, that the three stations remain open.

"We welcome the changes and I support the submission from the council."

Fellow committee member and independent councillor Lynne Quinn said: "I am delighted to receive confirmation that not only will the Gourock Fire Station remain open but equally importantly the staff numbers will be maintained.

"The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has launched a public consultation on its proposals to transform the service and I would urge everyone to take part in this survey to ensure that we maintain this vital emergency service."

Councillor Ronnie Ahlfeld was also lad to hear that the fire service would be maintained.

He said: “For many years we have had an excellent fire service in Gourock. We have had the confidence of excellent provision and excellent firefighters.

"I am delighted to learn of the commitment to maintain the service in Gourock which will soon have the benefit of a new appliance”.