GREENOCK Sheriff Court is returning to operation after the coronavirus lockdown.

The Scottish Courts Service has announced that criminal custody cases are now being dealt with again at the Nelson Street building.

Until now, Greenock matters have been dealt with at a 'hub' court in Paisley.

Courts service chief executive Eric McQueen said: "Given the changing position on the easing of lockdown measures, our priority is to ensure a safe and managed return of staff and judiciary to our buildings.

"This will be supported by a move to conducting more business online where it is appropriate to do so.

"The last few months have shown our capacity and appetite for change.

"The next will require that same commitment from everyone involved as we test and progress our recovery arrangements.

"Over the next few days we will share further plans on reopening and resuming summary criminal business and civil business."

A backlog of work has built up which the court will now have to get through.

There will be no public access to the building in during the initial weeks of the restart.