AMBITIOUS plans have been unveiled to invest more than £850,000 in new facilities at James Watt Dock Marina.

Bosses have appointed consultants Marina Projects to develop a new purpose-built operations centre and family space. 

At the core of the development is the construction of a new 400 square metre building which will become the main entrance to the marina, and will contain a customer foyer and reception. 

The building will also be used as a base for marina operations and management offices, and will provide meeting room space overlooking it.

Working with partners Midbrook Enterprises, Marina Projects are aiming to have the building ready for autumn 2024. 

Brian Lavalette, property director for Scotland at Peel Waters, joint venture partners in James Watt Dock LLP, said: "This new building complements our vision for developing a fully serviced marine leisure destination and marks the next stage in the regeneration of the historic James Watt Docks.

"We have been working with Marina Projects Ltd to develop a marina office building that provides the very best services and facilities to the marina sector on the Clyde."

Marina bosses say the new building will offer family rooms with their own showers, wash hand basins and toilets, 'luxury' family rooms with free-standing baths, and changing areas. 

A hub for marine trades and a new food and beverage offering will be housed within the new central building, with details of new tenants due to be announced shortly.

The marina offers 200 fully serviced pontoon berths for craft 7m to 100+m, and full deep-water access with a range of marina facilities.

James Watt Dock marina manager Graeme Galbraith said: "This is an exciting time at James Watt Dock Marina, especially for our berth holders, and together with the marina team we are all looking forward to the grand opening later this year."

Robyn Wright of Midbrook Buildings Ltd added: "We have developed plans with the operations team to ensure that our building delivers against the brief. 

"It has been a pleasure dealing with Marina Projects Ltd and we look forward to working together through the consenting and delivery stages of this exciting new project at James Watt Marina."