Interest is high in the huge former Homebase store in Greenock town centre

Consultants working on behalf of the building's owners say there are discussions ongoing with at least two possible tenants.

They expect to have the West Shaw Street unit let out in the next three to six months.

Struggling DIY chain Homebase quit the premises in December as part of a business rescue plan.

Budget gym operator Xercise4Less has been linked with the site after the Tele revealed on Monday the company is planning to open a fitness centre in Greenock, but it's understood the company is currently not in negotiations over such a move.

Officials in charge of the former Homebase store say they are confident of securing a new tenant very soon.

Consultant to the owners, Bill Sarre, from property management firm Hawksford, said: "We have a couple of conversations taking place with other parties.

"There are various discussions ongoing.

"Inevitably it's difficult to put a timetable on it but I'm positive we will be able to do something in the first half or quarter of this year.

"It's not our intention to sit on a vacant property for any length of time."

Building improvement works are scheduled to take place and officials believe the Greenock premises would suit a wide range of businesses.

Mr Sarre said: "It's a large property with a good size car park and opposite a busy road and I think it will appeal to someone.

"The market is a little bit challenging and there are other concerns that seem to be affecting people. "The intention is to do some work to put it into good condition.

"The team are doing all they can to bring in a new tenant."

Bosses at estate agent Savills are currently marketing the building and liaising with the interested parties.