ROADS bosses are launching a consultation on how to improve a busy Gourock junction.

The council is considering plans for a revamp at Larkfield Road and George Road and has been presented by a consultant with a series of options which people will get the chance to have their say on.

It comes after Inverclyde Council received a petition bearing almost 1,200 signatures, calling for traffic lights at the junction.

Now a public consultation is set to take place with different four options outlined to control traffic flow.

Councillors are being asked to rubberstamp the consultation.

The first proposal is to install traffic lights with as many as eight phases.

Officials have warned that the layout of the road means such a solution would be complex - and this could prove counter-productive.

A report which will be discussed by councillors next week says: "This proposal will be being taken forward to public consultation however the topography of the junction reduces visibility and the installation of the lights and all the different phases will actually increase the delay on all arms of the junction."

The second option is for a signalised crossing on Larkfield Road.

Council officers say this would reduce speeds and help pedestrians but would cause congestion at peak times and not help people crossing George Road.

Meanwhile, other options include an 'uncontrolled' or zebra pedestrian crossing or a relief road from Larkfield Road to Drumshantie Road with a one-way system on George Road.

The council report states: "Some of the options that will be presented at the public consultation may be taken together for example, one way on George Road, uncontrolled crossing and relief road."

Under plans drawn up by officials, the two proposals attracting most public support would be taken forward for detailed design and costing.

Councillors are expected to discuss the proposed options for public consultation at a meeting of the environment and regeneration committee at the Municipal Buildings on Thursday January 16.