THE successful hospitality firm behind a flagship waterfront restaurant at Greenock's new cruise terminal has received the keys for the premises and bosses hope to open by early summer.

Buzzworks Holdings, who run popular venues such as Scotts in Largs and The Coach House in Bridge of Weir, will now begin fitting out and finishing the eagerly-awaited new addition to the dining scene.

The stunning new Scotts venue is expected to bring 70 new jobs to the local community, with a bar, restaurant and open-air roof terrace offering spectacular views of the River Clyde

Council leader Stephen McCabe joined Buzzworks chairman Colin Blair at the new site to celebrate the key handover.

Colin, whose company is investing a seven-figure sum into the new venture, told the Tele: "This new venture has been a while in coming, so it is a really great moment to begin our much-anticipated renovations for the new Scotts.

"The project may be late, but it is one worth waiting on.

"We are delighted to be in Inverclyde, we see real potential here and we pledge to bring sustainable jobs and a viable hospitality business to the area.

"The Clyde has such a rich history, so we see this as almost a 'renaissance' - a chance to bring a new and exciting experience to the area and real opportunity for the community."

Internationally acclaimed designer Jim Hamilton is leading the design of the project, which has been supported by UK and Scottish government investment through the Glasgow City Region Deal and is being delivered by Inverclyde Council.

Alongside the new Buzzworks restaurant, the dedicated Greenock cruise ship visitor centre will feature a museum paying tribute to the late artist George Wyllie, who worked as a customs officer in Greenock and lived in Gourock for many years and a dedicated arrival and departures hall for the many cruise ships that dock in the area.

Inverclyde Council say the development is expected to increase visitor numbers to 150,000 a year and provide a £26 million boost to the Scottish economy.

Councillor Stephen McCabe, leader of Inverclyde Council, said: "This is another significant milestone in the delivery of what is expected to be a first class facility for both Inverclyde and our thousands of visitors each year.

"It is a very important project and it is fantastic to see it coming into its final months of completion.

"I would go as far as saying this is the most exciting city deal project, there is a genuine partnership between all involved and it is going to be a real asset to the community.

"Bringing 70 good quality jobs to the area is a welcomed boost and we are delighted to welcome Buzzworks to the area."

Jobs at the new Scotts restaurant will soon be advertised online at www.buzzworksholdings.com/careers