PLANS to build a harbourside office and welfare facilities at Greenock's Victoria Harbour have been lodged with Inverclyde Council.

Architects Nicholson McShane are seeking planning permission for a programme of works at Clyde Marine Ltd's Greenock offices.

If the proposals are given the go-ahead, the firm's current buildings will be replaced with modern high specification units.

The new facilities would be a significant upgrade on the firm's current offices, which comprise of three Portakabins, two of which are linked by a glazed walkway.

Finishes and design aim to draw on historic dockside buildings, with a modern twist.

Founded in 1913, Clyde Marine provides tug services, charter cruise vessels and vital harbour services all over the west coast of Scotland from its Greenock base.

It is hoped that the development will safeguard these activities and maintain the visibility of Greenock's maritime industry in the medium to long term.

Project architect Douglas Nicholson said: "We're pleased to be supporting Clyde Marine's plans for the future.

"The new development will provide a positive contribution to the historically important Clyde waterfront and serves to demonstrate the firm's confidence in, and support for, the local area."