COUNCILLORS have demanded more detailed analysis before Inverclyde Council bids for Greenock to become Scotland's eighth city.

The Tele reported last week how Municipal Buildings bosses are planning to put the town forward for civic honours via a competition organised for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee.

A report was presented to the policy and resources committee this week, with members asked to agree to a bid being compiled.

But instead they requested a more detailed report be put together on the issue first before any final decision is made.

The council is hoping Greenock can follow in the footsteps of Perth, which was awarded city status in 2012 are part of the Diamond Jubilee competition.

Bids must be submitted by December 8 but council leader Stephen McCabe says he wants a more thorough analysis to be brought forward assessing the implications.

He told the chamber: "I see no reason why Greenock shouldn't have city status but I think there’s merit in a more detailed report being brought to the committee.

"I think it would be helpful to have a more worked-up report to have a look in more detail about the implications of a successful bid.

"It would be useful to speak to colleagues in Perth as well to find out about their experiences and ask them what they’ve seen as the benefits of having city status.

"I think we should test the water in terms of the level of community support for the bid and I think we should have discussions with our community planning partners and our local MP and MSP."

If the bid was successful, Greenock would get a seat at the national Scottish Cities Alliance alongside Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Stirling, Dundee, Aberdeen and Perth.

This would create an opportunity for the town to further raise its profile and encourage investment.

Councillor Robert Moran said going for city status could only be a positive thing for Greenock.

He added: "This is a great opportunity. Even if we don’t win, it will put us on the map.

"It will let people know Inverclyde is alive and vibrant. Greenock has a great story to tell.

"This can only be good for us and we have nothing to lose. Maybe we’ll be successful and maybe we’ll have something to shout about for a change."

Councillors agreed to request that a more detailed report should be brought to the next meeting of the committee, which is in November.