A BUMPER fun day is being planned for Inverkip to mark the opening of its new community centre.

The striking £2.1 million building is nearing completion just off the A78, and is due to be unveiled to the public on October 8.

It is being provided by Inverclyde Council, and will be run by Inverkip Community Initiative, whose chairperson, Bill Stewart, says it will be a hive of activity in the village.

Mr Stewart said: “We started planning this in April 2013, and now it is finally being finished.

“We’re very grateful to Inverclyde Council for their support, and hope this will become a community hub for the whole of Inverkip.

“The village has grown and grown so much over recent years, so this will provide somewhere for everyone to get together and take part in plenty of activities.”

The centre has a single storey section with angled walls at each end shaped like the bow and stern of a ship.

That part of the building will have a library, meeting room, changing facilities and a cafe, and behind it will be a multi-purpose hall with a 90-seat capacity featuring retractable seating and a cinema-standard projection and sound system.

The development also includes a 3G all-weather sports pitch, community green, space for outside events, a play area and car park. 

Bill said: “There is a lot to look forward to, and we can’t wait to get started.”

The centre is due to be handed over soon to the initiative, who say they plan to make it as inclusive as possible for all age groups.

The open day will run from 1pm to 5pm and include a film show, a performance by Inverkip Primary choir, children’s races and a football competition.

Bill added: “We’re really looking forward to it.”