A PORT Glasgow councillor is adamant that 'all options should be on the table' in terms of what happens next with the Comet. 

Councillor Chris Curley spoke to the Telegraph following the removal of the vessel's engine and paddles in a carefully carried out operation on Wednesday. 

He acknowledged that the Comet replica leaving the town was a sad moment as the vessel was an important reminder of Inverclyde's strong maritime heritage. 

Cllr Curley added: "Obviously it's very sad that it's got to this stage but we have to deal with the situation as we find it and look to the future. 

"It's a big part of the industrial legacy of Port Glasgow and of Inverclyde and it's very important."

The Comet arrived in Port Glasgow in 1962 and is an exact replica of Henry Bell's 1812 original. 

A refurbishment was carried out at Ferguson's in 2010 but a plan to erect a canopy to protect her from the elements was scrapped and that decision proved disastrous for the landmark.

Greenock Telegraph:

It has been estimated that a replacement could cost around £500,000. 

Cllr Curley said the Comet removal team were trying to keep the insides of the vessel in good condition for potential use in the future. 

He added: "It's vital that we maximise the recovery of the replica. 

"It's being very carefully dismantled and the team are trying to salvage as much of it as possible."

Cllr Curley said the Comet's removal shouldn't dilute Inverclyde's shipbuilding legacy but should instead inspire people to build and strengthen the legacy of the industry going forward. 

He added: "Any developments must take place after the full consultation of the people of Port Glasgow and Inverclyde.

"The Comet means a lot to the people of the Port and they want to be involved in our decision-making going forward.

"All options should be on the table in terms of what happens next."