INVERCLYDE Shed has clinched a £500,000 grant to renovate a building in Greenock and transform it into a community workshop.

The organisation, with support from the council, received the payment from the Scottish Government for a 'Make, Grow and Share' project which will help secure its future for the next 25 years.

The money will be used to refurbish the rundown old council shed in East Blackhall Street, opposite East India Harbour, over the next year.

It will create a hub for people to share their expertise, learn new skills and put them to good use in the wider community.

Bruce Newlands, chairman, said: "Our members are delighted with the news that the Scottish Government’s Regeneration Capital Grant Fund will support our project with Inverclyde Council.

"It will involve renovating a 4,500 sq ft dilapidated council owned shed and will take 12 months before we can open in January 2022.

"The space will provide a long term sustainable base for The Inverclyde Shed for the next 25 years, with purpose-built modern facilities and new tools accessible to everyone."

The Shed was set up to help tackle loneliness, particularly among men, by bringing them together to enjoy using traditional skills.

In 2020 it was named Scottish shed of the year.

Bruce says the new funding is vital and will be put to good use.

He said: "This will allow us to continue the work we do in the community between generations."

MSP Stuart McMillan also welcomed the investment in the project.

He said: "The Inverclyde Shed is a fantastic initiative which provides vital support for people, so I am delighted that the SNP government will be providing this extra funding."

Councillor Jim Clocherty, local authority convener of education and communities, said: “The Inverclyde Shed do a terrific job supporting groups and individuals right across the area.

“They make a real difference to the lives of the people who are directly involved but also to those who benefit indirectly through the wonderful work they do in our communities.

“I’m really pleased the council has been able to support The Inverclyde Shed in securing funding that will not only breathe new life into an empty building, but provide a wealth of opportunities for residents of all ages and abilities while helping to improve our towns and villages.”