TWO new youth clubs are to open in Inverclyde as part of a £288,000 project.

Council bosses will expand the popular iYouth Zone scheme – aimed at 12-year-olds and older – which is already a popular attraction in Greenock.

Centres will now open in the former Boglestone Library in Port Glasgow and the former Gamble Nursery in Gourock.

The council has set aside £288,000 for the two-year-old initiative, which was recently approved by the education and communities committee.

Councillor James McColgan told the Tele that he welcomed the decision, saying: “As the council’s young people’s champion, I am proud that we are delivering two more iYouth Zones to provide more opportunities for young people across Inverclyde.

“The highly successful iYouth Zone in Greenock has just enjoyed its second birthday and has been a huge success, with young people travelling from all over Inverclyde to use it.

“These new facilities will be a great addition to it.” The Greenock iYouth Zone provides a place for people to meet friends, access the internet, enjoy arts and crafts and play games.

The centre also has a music room equipped with guitars, drum pads and DJ equipment for music workshops.

The project provides information on various issues such as alcohol and drugs, sexual health, mental health and bullying.

Councillor McColgan said the council had consulted with young people in both towns and an overwhelming majority – 85 per cent in Port Glasgow and 68.5 per cent in Gourock – backed the idea.

He added both facilities would be up and running within three months.