A PIONEERING £375,000 coastal walk to promote Inverclyde’s heritage has been officially opened.

Provost Robert Moran unveiled the first of 24 information points dotted along the trail, outside Custom House Quay.

The 20-mile-long route runs from Langbank to Wemyss Bay and covers some of the area’s most iconic landmarks.

Provost Moran said: “The launch of the Heritage Inverclyde Coastal Trail is a fantastic boost for tourism in the area, allowing visitors to explore the rich heritage of the area and explore the beautiful coastline from Finlaystone in the east to Wemyss Bay in the west.

“I’d like to thank everyone who has been involved in making this project possible and I look forward to seeing the other information points taking shape over the coming months.” Highlights along the way include Newark Castle and the Comet in Port Glasgow, the Titan Crane and Custom House in Greenock, plus Cloch Lighthouse in Gourock and Wemyss Bay Station.

The project aims to put Inverclyde on the map by highlighting its proud shipbuilding tradition, historic buildings and breathtaking scenery.

It’s hoped the trail will entice more people to visit the area, boost the local economy and increase job opportunities.

Inverclyde received £375,000 from the Scottish Government’s Coastal Communities Fund and was one of the first places in Scotland benefit from it.

Christine Thompson, funding officer of the Coastal Communities Fund, said: “The project will bring stories and places to life, attracting more visitors to Inverclyde and positioning the area as a key visitor attraction in the west of Scotland, which will help to boost the local economy.” The council has worked closely with Inverclyde Tourist Group, The Community Development Trust, Discover Inverclyde and the local branch of the Ramblers’ Association to deliver the project.

It includes clear signposts and seating along the route, telling the story of Inverclyde through the ages.

The council is also producing a new booklet and pop-up information map leaflet to showcase the new coastal trail.