HOUSEBUILDERS Mactaggart and Mickel have pledged to boost the local economy and work with the community after getting the green light for 78 new homes in Kilmacolm.

The company's application to develop on greenbelt land at the meadow, west Quarry Drive, proved controversial and it attracted over 400 objections.

But the outline application was finally passed in a crunch full council vote and now bosses are forging ahead.

The firm, based in Glasgow, say they are committed to working closely with the community as the plans progress.

Craig Ormond, director, said: “Mactaggart & Mickel are pleased at Inverclyde Council’s approval of our proposed Kilmacolm development.

“We have developed our proposals to ensure our planned Quarry Drive development fits neatly into the village in a sustainable manner.

“Our proposed Quarry Drive development will help meet the well documented need for more homes across Scotland and will boost the local economy.

“The new homes which are planned will be sympathetic to the character of Kilmacolm and they will be perfect for people who are attracted to all of the benefits of living in this fantastic village."

Mr Ormond believes the firm went the extra mile in its consultation exercise with local residents and feels this will pay off for the good of the village in the long-run.

He told the Telegraph: “As part of a major community engagement exercise, which went far beyond what is required by the planning process, we directly contacted all households asking for ideas on how we can make a positive contribution to Kilmacolm.

“We are very grateful for their helpful ideas and delighted that our outline planning application for the project has been backed by Inverclyde Council.

"We remain fully committed to working closely with the local community and community council throughout the remainder of the planning process.”