INVERCLYDE'S MSP has called for a u-turn as he joins the fight to save a sheltered housing complex in Greenock.

The SNP's Stuart McMillan has vowed to support residents who are 'scared and 'frightened' by the controversial decision to close MacLeose Court on Eldon Street.

Mr McMillan met people who live in the residential unit for younger people who need round-the-clock care after bosses announced plans to convert the complex into independent living flats.

He has asked operators, social housing and care charity Blackwood Housing, to change their minds and keep it open.

The Tele recently reported how residents and their families have been left angry and upset by the sudden decision.

Mr McMillan said: "I met with residents and families at MacLehose Court who were clearly distressed at the situation they are facing.

"They highlighted their concern about the process and how these changes will adversely affect the community that has been built up in MacLehose Court.

"Consideration needs to be given to ensure this community stays together and the obvious solution is for MacLehose Court to remain open.

"Many of the residents have lived together for years.

"My primary concern is the health and well-being of my constituents, both those who are residents as well as the staff.

"They are understandably scared and frightened about their futures at the moment."

Bosses at Blackwood say that traditional models of adult residential care are 'widely accepted as being no longer desirable and sustainable' and claim that customer feedback shows that more people want to live in a homely setting rather than residential care.

But a petition against the closure plan has already attracted almost 3,000 signatures so far.

Gourock woman Brenda Elliot, whose husband Colin, 49, has Huntington’s disease and lives in MacLehose said: “They can’t close MacLehose Court.

“We will fight and keep fighting."

Mr McMillan says Blackwood and health and social care chiefs must act to answer questions from residents and their relatives.

He said: “Blackwood Housing in partnership with the Inverclyde HSCP have a huge job on their hands to provide the re-assurances to everyone affected.”