AN ambitious £3.8 million refurbishment programme to upgrade homes in Port Glasgow is due to start in May.

Inverclyde’s largest housing association, River Clyde Homes (RCH), will carry out external and drainage works in the Slaemuir area.

Slaemuir Tenants’ and Residents’ Association previously fought successfully to bring internal improvements forward, prompted by talks with housing bosses, ward councillor James McColgan and council leader Stephen McCabe.

Now another phase, to upgrade building exteriors and the environment, is due to start in a few months.

Councillor McColgan, pictured, said: “I welcome the £3.8m investment in the Slaemuir area by River Clyde Homes and I am pleased to hear that the work is finally going to start in May.

“A steering group was previously set up by RCH to discuss plans for the area and credit must be given to the members of Slaemuir Tenants’ and Residents’ Association who worked hard to represent the views of tenants and residents across Slaemuir in order to get the best deal for the area.

“We were successful in getting the investment in kitchens and bathrooms brought forward but it’s important that the remaining investment work is carried out as soon as possible.” There will be consultation with owner occupiers over the cost of the work and possible financial help for them.

Cllr McColgan said: “The work is mainly to the external of the buildings, inside the closes and garden areas but the extent of it largely depends on the consultation with owners about sharing costs and the bronze standard will be completed as a minimum.

“RCH are also looking at grant funding to assist owners in the costs for the work.” The work is expected to be completed by December.