THE green light has been given for an ambitious overhaul and extension of Gourock Park Bowling Club.

The committee approached local architect Bruce Newlands, who drew up plans for them, and they have now been given the go-ahead by town planners.

Club office bearers say the club needs more flexible space, better accessibility and changing facilities.

Bruce's designs include a large multi-function room in the roof of the pavilion, with large windows overlooking the bowling greens and an accessible changing facility for young people plus a state of the art ‘changing space’ room for disabled users in a separate annexe next door.

Club chairman/secretary Ian Brown says he is 'excited' by the revamp.

He said: "I've been a member since I was 12 years old and I've seen all the changes through the years.

"We use the clubhouse for a range of different things and we want to extend and upgrade it.

"We want to install a large window and function room upstairs so people can look over the green.

"Our current changing facilities are cabins which are inappropriate and need to be upgraded.

"We want to extend these and include full disabled access with dressing room"

The club is at the heart of the community and used by the Boys' Brigade and Guides plus pupils from Craigmarloch School, so the committee were keen to put proper facilities in place.

Now they have planning permission they can get on with applying for money to make the improvements.

The club's lease from the council has been extended to 25 years, which will bolster their case for funding.

Treasurer John Lamb says he is delighted the application has gone through so quickly.

It's estimated that the work could cost in the region of £50,000.

The club hope their improvements will link into other plans to breathe new life into Gourock Park.

Ian says he hopes the club will end up at the centre of a thriving multi-sports hub linking into the tennis courts, crazy golf and go-karting.

Town councillor Ronnie Ahlfeld described the club as a 'long-established institution’ in the park.

He added: "It is a great, welcoming club with committed members.

"I am delighted that with Bruce’s help and expertise they have passed the first hurdle in terms of developing a lounge viewing area and changing accommodation.

"This will complement and be central in the plans for more restoration in the park itself.”