WORK has started on the latest project in Inverclyde Council's �14.5 million investment in leisure facilities.

A new �1.5 million grass football pitch and pavilion - including three changing rooms and disabled changing - is being built at Rankin Park in Greenock.

Councillor Michael McCormick, environment and regeneration convener, said: "We are committed to creating first class facilities within our communities to promote healthy lifestyles and provide the opportunity for people to meet and socialise through sport.

"This new development will add to our impressive portfolio of leisure sites and will be a real asset for Greenock and Inverclyde."

Other key projects in the council's leisure strategy include the new �6 million community sports hub at Parklea in Port Glasgow, the �1.8 million refurbishment of Ravenscraig Stadium, and the �1.8 million refurbishment of Gourock's historic outdoor pool.

Regeneration vice convener Councillor Gerry Dorrian added: "Four years ago when we outlined our proposals for leisure facilities we had budgeted for a much larger development at Rankin Park.

"While the tough decision to scale back that investment had to be taken we are hopeful that when funding becomes available we can expand and enhance the current project.

"That is why we have factored in the provisional future development of 3G five-a-side pitches and additional changing and parking facilities."

Work on the new football pitch and changing pavilion is due to be completed by the end of October.