A PLAN has been unveiled to kickstart businesses in Inverclyde out of lockdown by introducing temporary pedestrianised zones.

Pubs, cafes, restaurants and shops would be able to reopen al fresco in designated spaces outside their premises under the proposal from the SNP group on the council.

It would see Kempock Street in Gourock, West Blackhall Street, Clyde Square and Cathcart Square in Greenock, and parts of Port Glasgow blocked to cars.

Councillors Chris McEleny and Elizabeth Robertson are promoting the idea after First Minister Nicola Sturgeon confirmed a reduced risk of Covid-19 transmission outdoors.

Mr McEleny said: "Creating a temporary solution of more outside areas may support more local businesses to get back up and running again whilst at the same time not having an adverse impact on the spread of coronavirus.

"This is something we will look to explore."

Councillor Robertson added: "We already know that support needs to be put in place to revive our town centres.

"There is a genuine concern that if some businesses are closed for too long then they might not be able to open again."

Phase two of the Scottish Government's roadmap — from June 18 — could see pubs and restaurants reopen outdoor spaces.

Phase three, from July 9, could see indoor spaces within pubs, restaurants and cafes to open, with appropriate social distancing and hygiene measures in place.

The SNP representatives believe that temporary pedestrianisation of some areas may help businesses to reopen sooner.

As well as creating continental-style dining and drinking areas with table service, the zoned areas would allow shops to operate outdoors in a market-type setting.

Cllr McEleny said: "Right now we are still in lockdown with the message being to stay at home.

"However, it is very much welcome that the Scottish Government has now set out a roadmap which puts some light at the end of the tunnel."

Councillor Robertson — a member of the Greenock Town Centre Regeneration Forum — told the Tele: "Tackling the coronavirus is everyone's priority at the moment, but if there is a way of supporting businesses to reopen safely, even if this means temporarily closing appropriate streets, this is something that merits consideration.

"Creative solutions will be needed to move forward and it would be great to hear from businesses as to what ideas they might have."

Stephen McGowan, head of licensing at commercial law firm TLT Solicitors, supports the idea and believes that a task force should be set up to explore it.

Mr McGowan said: "If we are looking at new al fresco facilities in appropriate locations across Scotland then we need innovation and imagination from both trade and the authorities.

"If there is appetite for this then it should be led by the local authority — appointing a task force to identify suitable locations and creative solutions to deal with road closures, planning and licensing."