PLANS are on course for a £1.25m luxury housing development next to Gourock Golf Club.

Local property developer Ben Barrs hopes to build 15 apartments across three blocks on vacant land next door to his own house in Cowal View.

Mr Barrs, who owns Baronial Development (Gourock) Ltd, says that the apartments would be aimed at local people who have lived in the area all their lives and wish to downsize but still stay next to the course and other local amenities.

He told the Telegraph: “Our family home is adjacent to the site so we want to ensure the highest quality design and construction which is integrated with our own property.

“The apartments are designed to look like three large detached villas but with apartments within them.

“The design has been encouraged via dialogue with lots of local people to give them a choice of accommodation which is not currently in this part of Gourock.” As part of the proposals each block would have four two-bedroom apartments as well as a three/four bedroom penthouse.

Mr Barrs added: “All the flats have balconies and are designed to take the benefit of unrestricted River Clyde views.

“The penthouse flats will have stunning wraparound balconies to offer fantastic views.” The plans are currently being considered by officials at Inverclyde Council.

Applicant Mr Barrs said: “Obviously I’m happy to have dialogue with any interested parties.

“This is the very early stages of the process, as the planning application has just been submitted but we are hopeful of positive progress in the future.”