Claire Lindsay

Plans submitted by InstaVolt Ltd seek permission to install two rapid electric vehicle charging stations in the existing 22-space customer car park at McDonald’s on James Watt Way in Greenock. The proposal says the work would not affect trees or increase flood risk and aligns with Scottish net-zero emissions planning targets for 2045; the application does not state whether the number of parking spaces would change.

Inverclyde Council has asked Scottish ministers to dismiss MBJB Property’s appeal against the refusal of plans to convert the former Broomhill Bar on Drumfrochar Road, Greenock, into a convenience store. Councillors rejected the proposal over concerns about traffic and parking, despite planning officers recommending approval. Residents’ representatives have also opposed the appeal, citing pedestrian safety, nearby schools and the store’s potential to operate as a mini-supermarket. The council highlighted ongoing A78 diversion works, expected to continue until 2027, which could increase traffic on the road. Appeal reporter Julie Seidel-Gregory will now decide whether the refusal stands.

Martin McCluskey MP has launched the Inverclyde and Renfrewshire West Community Heroes programme to recognize individuals, groups and young people who make positive contributions to their communities. Nominations are open year-round from residents, community organizations and schools, with notable nominations eligible for additional recognition. The scheme is intended both to thank local contributors and to highlight community work across the constituency.

Children First has reminded families in Inverclyde that its free, confidential support is available throughout the year, particularly as children return to school. The charity’s services address mental health concerns, financial pressures, family relationships and online harm, and its support line assisted nearly 14,000 people over the past year. Chief executive Mary Glasgow encouraged parents and carers to seek help before problems become overwhelming, via phone or webchat.

Seventy-five-year-old Greenock resident John Morton lost more than seven stone in a year after being referred by a nurse at Greenock Health Centre to NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s Weight Management Service and Slimming World. He says the weight loss improved his breathing, mobility and energy and reversed his type 2 diabetes, while reducing his reliance on prescription medicines. Health service and Slimming World representatives praised his sustainable lifestyle changes and encouraged others concerned about their weight to seek support.

Lotus Pregnancy & Postnatal Yoga is launching Mum & Baby Yoga sessions at Spotlight Studio on Jamaica Street in Greenock, with the first class scheduled for Monday, August 17. The sessions will combine gentle movement, relaxation and opportunities for mothers to bond with their babies. Booking and availability information is available through the yoga provider's Facebook page.

Virgin Voyages’ Valiant Lady and Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Eclipse made back-to-back visits to Greenock’s Ocean Terminal, generating interest along the waterfront. The article outlines both ships’ size, passenger capacity and amenities, including Valiant Lady’s adults-only facilities and Celebrity Eclipse’s half-acre real-grass Lawn Club. Further visits by Aida Cruises’ Aidabella, TUI’s Mein Schiff 3 and P&O’s Arcadia were also scheduled.

Craig Molloy Coaching, a Greenock organisation founded in 2024 by former professional footballer Craig Molloy, has been named one of six finalists in the One to Watch category at the Social Enterprise Awards Scotland. The coaching charity supports more than 350 participants each week and aims to build confidence on and off the football pitch. The awards ceremony is scheduled for October, with the category sponsored by PwC UK.

SPICEWORLD The Tribute, a five-member group of trained singers and dancers from Glasgow, will perform at Greenock’s Albany Theatre on August 22. The show will feature Spice Girls songs in its first set and music from other girl groups, including B*Witched, Atomic Kitten and Girls Aloud, in its second set. Tickets cost £21 and are available online.

The theatre production ‘A Waiting Game,’ based on real breast cancer experiences, will be performed at Greenock’s Beacon Arts Centre on August 5. Created by Lori Delaney and people with lived experience of breast cancer, the show is supported by Beatson Cancer Charity and University of Glasgow researchers, who are studying its therapeutic potential and role in supporting emotional wellbeing. Post-performance workshops will help develop arts-based projects with audience members affected by cancer.

Traffic restrictions remain in place on Regent Street and Dellingburn Street in Greenock while Scottish Water completes defective manhole repairs. An eastbound lane on Regent Street is closed between Lynedoch Street and Dellingburn Street, while Dellingburn Street is closed between Regent Street and the Morrisons roundabout. Diversions are in place, with the restrictions scheduled to continue until late on July 30.

Wellpark Mid Kirk celebrated the retirement of organist and choirmaster Archie Shearer after 34 years of service. During a special service, Shearer selected the music and hymns and received gifts from the congregation, while former minister Alan Sorensen contributed a video message. The celebration continued with a lunch and memory-sharing in the church hall.

The ladies’ public toilets on Shore Street in Gourock have been closed until further notice because of a maintenance issue, Inverclyde Council said. The closure follows the temporary shutdown of the gents’ toilets on Albert Road after vandalism; those facilities have since reopened. The council apologised for the inconvenience.

Dogs for Good is accepting enquiries from Inverclyde residents who could benefit from an assistance dog after developing local partnerships over the past year. The dogs are individually matched and can help with everyday tasks, physiotherapy, mobility and emotional support. The charity will also hold a free information event at Branchton Community Centre in Greenock in September.

Temporary traffic restrictions will affect two Greenock roads during Scottish Water repairs. An eastbound lane of Regent Street will close between Lynedoch Street and Dellingburn Street, while Dellingburn Street will be closed between Regent Street and the Morrisons roundabout from 7am on July 28 until 11:59pm on July 30. Diversions will be provided for both closures.

Underheugh Ark Rescue announced that Bella, a dog who spent 16 months in kennels because of behavioural challenges and selective trust, has been adopted by Alexandra and her family. The rescue said Bella transformed after building trust with staff and quickly settled into her new home, where she is expected to receive the care and stability she deserves.

Inverclyde Council has approved Wingston Spice’s request to extend its daily closing time from 9pm to 11pm at its Murdieston Street premises in Greenock. The decision followed three local objections and earlier refusals in 2006 and 2011 over noise and disturbance concerns. Conditions recommended by the Public Protection Service will limit noise from plant and machinery. The takeaway said later hours are needed to compete with other local businesses and would not significantly increase noise, odour or traffic.

Game Retail Limited has entered administration for the second time, burdened with nearly £16 million in debt, including £3.5 million owed to a secured creditor and about £12 million to unsecured creditors. Administrators from KR8 Advisory said the retailer briefly returned to profitability after restructuring but could not adapt to long-term shifts in the video game market. The company operates a store in Greenock and was previously relaunched after a 2012 administration.