This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Better transport system for Gourock
27/08/2003
The long-awaited Gourock interchange for cars, buses, trains and ferries took a step forward today with the confirmation of Executive funding to Inverclyde Council to progress the final plans for the scheme.
This breakthrough came after Network Rail Chairman, Ian McAllister confirmed his organisation's commitment to the scheme once appropriate plans are completed by November.
Inverclyde Council, Network Rail and a private developer will work together to provide an interchange which will improve and combine transport links by replacing the existing rail and ferry terminals. It will also include facilities for park and ride, buses and taxis as well as providing links for cyclists and pedestrians to Gourock town centre.
Transport Minister Nicol Stephen said:
"The positive response from Network Rail is the breakthrough we had been working hard to achieve. I am immediately releasing £500,000 of funding to allow the final project plan to be completed. This will allow Inverclyde Council to progress all the detailed planning work. The new Gourock Interchange is a major project that will deliver a vastly improved integrated transport system for the town.
"Ian McAllister's confirmation to me that Network Rail is committed to this project is particularly welcome. The transition between Railtrack and Network Rail had created some doubt about the future of this important project. However, we now need to move very quickly to ensure we meet tight project deadlines.
"The Interchange provides the opportunity to develop a real alternative to the private car by providing rail, ferry, bus and taxi users with a modern purpose built centre.
"The Executive is committed to improving public transport and creating a truly integrated network. Spending on public transport - which is top of our priorities - will rise by 70 per cent in 3 years. The Gourock Interchange will ensure that using public transport is a convenient high quality option for local people.
Councillor Alan Blair, Leader of Inverclyde Council said:
"The transport interchange is the catalyst for the redevelopment of Gourock and this level of support from the Scottish Executive is welcomed. It means that the Council, working with its development partners, can deliver the finalised details of the interchange building to Network Rail within their November 2003 timescale. This commitment takes us further en route to delivering the vital improvements which Gourock deserves and Inverclyde needs.
"Based on this announcement I am taking immediate steps to make sure we do our part to achieve the redevelopment of Central Gourock as the impact on the economic and social regeneration as well as the economic and tourism benefits must not be underestimated.
"We already have the backing of the local community through our consultations and this consultation process will continue. I have already received the developer's equal commitment to today's news and we can now focus on delivering this major project"
The project is an integral part of the wider regeneration of Gourock Waterfront for commercial and residential property. The project is good for the local economy as well as the local people.