OAK Mall bosses say they are 'surprised' after council chiefs rejected their plans to demolish a large part of the Greenock shopping centre - could launch an appeal.

Planning officials have sensationally knocked back a bid to tear down the eastern wing of the complex that runs under the High Street flyover towards Clyde Square.

Mall chiefs said the demolition was needed to accommodate major repairs to the A78 by trunk road governing body Transport Scotland and to address the high number of empty units in that area of the centre.

The application also included proposals for a new entrance, frontage and 'high quality' public spaces at Hunter Place.

But council planning officers refused permission, claiming Transport Scotland only require the removal of a 'small number' of roof cladding panels and service pipes attached to the underside of the bridge - and that taking away such a large section of town centre retail space is 'unjustified'.

Bosses from the Mall, which is run by London-based M&M Asset Management, could now challenge the decision and say they are continuing discussions with tenants in the affected area, which includes the likes of Argos, M&Co and Fresh cafe, about relocating.

A spokesman said: "We are very surprised at Inverclyde Council's decision that was decided by the delegated authority of the planning officer. "As far as we're aware, there were no objections whatsoever to our application."

The firm says it is working with it planning consultants and 'considering the next steps', which may include an appeal.

They added: "In the meantime, we are continuing to discuss relocations with those tenants who would be affected by our proposal."

It is understood one of the cornerstones of the council's decision is a lack of information from shopping centre chiefs about the 'future intentions' for the cleared site.

But Mall officials believe this is not required at this stage and insist it does not directly affect the application at hand.

Shopping centre management are said to be 'fuming' at the council's decision.

If an appeal is lodged, the case would be referred to councillors on the local review body to have the final say.