PLANS have been unveiled to give one of Inverclyde’s most iconic statues a makeover.

The bronze statue of Greenock’s most famous son, James Watt, was installed at the former Watt Memorial School on the corner of William Street and Dalrymple Street over 100 years ago.

It honours the famed Scottish inventor, whose refined steam engine paved the way for the industrial revolution which transformed the world.

The statue has become a familiar landmark in the town centre but a recent inspection found that although it is in reasonably good condition, it is showing signs of wear and tear.

A council spokesman said today that preserving the tribute, which now forms part of Inverclyde Council’s offices, is a priority.

He said: “James Watt was a man who literally changed the world and of course we are rightly extremely proud of his legacy and his Inverclyde heritage.

“The statue is an iconic landmark in Greenock and we will bring in specialist contractors to restore and preserve it for generations to come.”

The council want to refurbish and restore the statue by carrying out essential work such as stone cleaning to get rid of mouldy areas.

Planning permission is required for the work to be carried out.

A condition report compiled for the local authority by Robert Potter & Partners Chartered Architects states: “The bronze statue which contains the inscription ‘Singers Founders’ on its square base appears, in general, to be in reasonably good condition, however it was noted that there are signs of general weathering marks on the bronze statue and that it suffers from water run off markings.”

The Telegraph understands that the job will be put out to competitive tender once planning approval is granted.