INVERCLYDE’S skyline is set to change forever after port bosses told the Tele they are getting rid of three iconic cranes.

Officials from Peel Ports-owned Clydeport today confirmed that the structures at Inchgreen Dry Dock will be flattened in the near future.

They have dominated the local skyline for half a century, but Clydeport say they are no longer fit for purpose.

Bosses say the three cranes have not been used for more than a decade. and that plans are now in place for a ‘controlled demolition’ of one of the last-remaining reminders of Inverclyde’s former shipbuilding prowess.

Andrew Hemphill, port director of Peel Ports Clydeport, said:

“The cranes located at Inchgreen Dry Docks are some 50 years old and have not been operational for in excess of 10 years.

“Peel Ports Clydeport have taken the decision to remove them from the Inchgreen and have appointed Technical Demolition Services as the contractor responsible for their safe removal. They are recognised experts with many years of experience in controlled demolitions. 

“This will enable alternative uses for the estate to be explored which will be to the benefit of the local community.

“At this time no firm date has been made for the cranes to be demolished and discussions are ongoing as to the most appropriate and safest method to be used.”

Inchgreen is one of three Inverclyde sites set to benefit from almost £10 million from the Glasgow and Clyde Valley City Deal initiative to transform the site into a renewable energy hub. Work is scheduled to start in January 2021.

Ferguson’s owner Jim McColl was also keen on utilising the historic site – where Cunard liner QE2 was famously fitted out in the 1960s – to complement the Port Glasgow shipyard along the road.

A series of high level meetings took place between Mr McColl, Peel chiefs and senior local politicians but a deal failed to materialise.