A CLOSURE-threatened Kilmacolm cafe looks set to be saved from the axe – and there are new plans to create a beauty parlour next door.

Operators of the Birkmyre gym coffee shop are in discussions with Inverclyde Leisure (IL) chiefs about renewing their lease.

More than 1,000 people recently signed a petition calling for it to stay open after fears were raised about its future.

Both parties got round the table to discuss extending the lease and the Tele understands a five-year deal is on the cards.

IL bosses are also looking to breathe new life into a disused changing room, and are inviting offers from people to operate a beauty, therapy or massage business to complement the gym and cafe.

David McCorkindale, IL’s head of leisure and community facilities, said: “We’re renegotiating the cafe lease at the moment.

“I’m quite confident they will renew it. The cafe is really good and it’s been there since we opened in 2008 and the service is great.”

Kilmacolm councillor David Wilson backed the calls to retain the coffee shop along with business owner Alessia Nardini and villager Alison Watson, who set up the petition.

Cllr Wilson said: “It does look as though if there’s a satisfactory conclusion the cafe will be saved, so I’m delighted. With a thousand people signing a petition in the village that shows the sense of feeling.

“Inverclyde Leisure have been very understanding, they realise they have a jewel in the crown there and I’m really pleased they are negotiating with the proprietors.”

IL chiefs say it has been a difficult year for the Birkmyre facility, which they rent from Inverclyde Council.

They are trying to fully utilise the building and boost income after investing around £100,000 alone on refurbishment of the fitness suite two years ago on top of paying for ongoing repairs.

There is also a lack of space to extend the property to offer popular fitness classes and it’s hoped that converting the spare changing room will make a difference.

Mr McCorkindale said: “We’re looking to maximise the area and income to make sure it washes its face. We’re hoping to re-let the cafe and get somebody in doing services next door, grow memberships and hopefully be in a much better financial position this time next year.”

Cllr Wilson said: “Anything that improves the offer of the Birkmyre leisure centre has got to be welcomed.”