COUNCIL bosses plan to build a dedicated camp for travellers at Kelburn Park, it has been revealed.

In total, 15 possible locations were considered but it was decided that the Port Glasgow site was the best possible option.

It could contain up to 12 'pitches' and would cost around �50,000 to establish.

Municipal buildings bosses are proposing that a specific section of the park will be cordoned off from general public use for the 'official transit site'.

A working group has been looking into options and they attended a 'training session' led by traveller representatives to get an insight into their culture and expectations over facilities on sites.

The move to provide a dedicated site has been prompted by concerns about travellers setting up in unauthorised locations such as Newark Castle.

The report to committee says: "The establishment of an official transit site in the area may provide a solution to allow greater harmony in community relations with visiting gypsies/travellers to the area, and increase the powers of Inverclyde Council to direct gypsies/travellers away from unsuitable sites."

The Telegraph recently reported that Kelburn Park had been left like 'a rubbish tip' after travellers had set up camp there.

Councillors will discuss the plan for an official site at a meeting next week.

If they agree, the proposal will go out for public consultation, with planning permission also eventually required for the site.