Road in Greenock to be named after late Inverclyde businessman and former Morton chairman Douglas Rae.

Councillors have voted unanimously to christen the carriageway alongside James Watt Dock Marina in honour of the Millions sweets entrepreneur, who passed away in June at the age of 87.

It was agreed at a meeting on Thursday that the stretch, just across from Cappielow, should be called Douglas Rae Road in tribute to the Greenock businessman's contribution to Inverclyde.

A life-long Morton fan, Mr Rae was chairman of the Ton for 17 years after rescuing the club from administration in 2001 and also founded the successful Fort Matilda-based confectionery company, Golden Casket.

He was awarded an OBE in 2016.

Elected members broke with tradition of not naming roads after individuals by agreeing the proposal at the latest environment and regeneration meeting.

Committee member, Councillor Chris Curley, said: "I propose that we as a council take the opportunity presented here to name this road in recognition of the service provided to Inverclyde by the late Mr Douglas Rae OBE.

"There is no doubt in my mind that Inverclyde would have been diminished without his intervention and action, both in saving Greenock Morton Football Club, and in his wider business interests.

"I have discussed this proposal with the ward councillors and the members of this committee and I understand there to be consensus across this chamber on this issue.

"Both Morton and the Mr Rae's family have been consulted on this proposal.

"Naming this road, which is so close to Cappielow, would be a fitting tribute to Mr Rae."

Council officers had initially wanted to call the stretch Great Harbour Road but councillors overruled.

Morton supporter and committee member, Councillor Chris McEleny, said: "Very pleased that ??Inverclyde Council has taken the decision to name the new road leading from Cappielow into Greenock's Great Harbour as 'Douglas Rae Road' in a tribute to the contribution the chairman made to Inverclyde during his life."