WORK is underway on the £10 million construction of a new community support hub in Greenock.
The facility is being built by Ogilvie Construction on the former Hector McNeil Swimming Pool site in Brachelston Street.
The project is being led and funded by Inverclyde Council/Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) alongside development partner hub West Scotland, with Holmes Miller behind the design.
The new-build facility will have space for up to 50 adults and young people with learning disabilities and autism with scope for other community use. It will replace the existing Fitzgerald Centre in Greenock and the former McPherson Centre in Gourock, which closed a number of years ago.
The local authority explained that the aim of the project is to provide an enhanced sensory experience for those users with complex needs, including those with co-existing conditions such as autism, visual and perceptual impairments, physical and sensory disabilities, dementia and life-limiting conditions.
Careful consideration has been given to the use of materials, texture, colour and noise to provide the best possible environment for service users and staff indoors and outdoors. Another key focus of the project is achieving enhanced energy efficiencies and a low operational carbon footprint, including the use of roof-mounted solar panels to help offset emissions.
Iain Marley, chief executive of hub West, said, “We are thrilled to celebrate this significant milestone with our partner Inverclyde Council.
“Thanks to a commitment to collaboration and no small amount of skill, the project team has overcome complex challenges to deliver a high-quality design that maximises the site’s potential.
“The new facilities are thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of today’s users while offering the flexibility to adapt to future demands.
“In addition to the delivery of the new building, we are proud that our commitment to social investment is creating meaningful opportunities for skills development, employment, and community support, benefiting both local people and businesses.”
Grier Edmead, operations director of Ogilvie Construction, added, “We are proud to be working with Inverclyde Council and hub West Scotland to build such an important new community facility.
“As we now start site operations, we will liaise with the local residents to ensure the minimum of disruption throughout the project and look forward to handing over a first-class, purpose-built centre in early 2026.”
