Ambitious plan to bring Gourock Park back to its former glory is starting to take shape

Town councillors Ronnie Ahlfeld and Lynne Quinn are the driving force behind the bid to turn the ten acres of land into a destination for visitors.

They are using the vehicle of the town regeneration forum to take a step back in time and recreate the park's heyday.

The independent councillors have a blueprint in place for investment in the park's beauty spots such as the waterfall and walled garden.

They also want to see paths upgraded, the Darroch mausoleum restored and make use of the former putting green.

Councillor Lynne Quinn said: "It is about restoring the park and making it a destination.

"We want activities here, not just a park people can walk round.

"The recent musical theatre performances held here showed what we can do.

"We had so many comments from people saying it was the first time they had been to the park for years.

"The park is such a beautiful place for people to visit and enjoy."

Funding is already in place to resurface the car park on George Road, following the recent refurbishment of the children's centre and Gourock YAC building.

There is also a plan to cover the amphitheatre, develop the walled garden and create a outdoor classroom for children.

The councillors also want to cut back overgrowth, restore boundary walls and make it easier for people to use the park at night, with motion sensored lighting mooted.

Councillor Ahlfeld added: "Gourock Park is a hidden gem.

"We want it to be a place to come for leisure again.

"People of a certain age remember the park and all the activities there - they used to love the pitch and putt.

"We have funding in place for some of it and some work has been completed, but Covid-19 has meant work has been delayed.

"We have successfully regenerated the Kempock Street end of the town - now we have to look at this side."