The major planning application - prepared and submitted by planning and design consultancy Barton Willmore on behalf of Advance Construction - seeks Planning Permission in Principle (PPP) for a mixed-use masterplan which would include up to 450 new homes, alongside areas of new employment, leisure, community and retail use.

The proposals also include a new ‘Park and Ride’ facility adjacent to IBM Rail Halt, which would see the station re-opened to the public, alongside areas of extensive greenspace, parkland and a network of new paths across the site.

The project represents a £100 million investment in the local area, with approximately 130 jobs created through the construction phase and a further 300 jobs upon completion.

Seamus Shields, managing director of Advance Construction and joint owner of the site, commented: “We are pleased to have reached this key milestone on what is such an important project locally.  Delivery of the project will provide a lasting legacy and, crucially, provide a significant social and economic boost to the local area.

“We are proud to be playing a key role in regenerating this high-profile brownfield site and contributing towards the growth of local businesses and retailers.”

Sandy Easdale, who is also a joint owner of the site with brother James, said: “We are delighted that the planning application has been submitted as we look to deliver this massive opportunity for the local area. 

“We believe that these proposals will have a significant positive economic impact across Inverclyde, providing a large mix and number of quality new homes, as well as modern employment, commercial and retail space. Not only will the development attract new people to the area, but it will be desirable to those already living here”.

Planning director for Barton Willmore in Scotland, Colin Lavety, said: “These proposals are a culmination of a huge amount of positive design and technical work undertaken by our project team, including a full Environmental Impact Assessment. We are excited to be involved in such a high-profile project which will leave a genuine, lasting legacy on the surrounding area.

“Not only will it deliver much needed new homes, but a range of complimentary uses which will transform the site into a high-quality, vibrant, attractive environment to live and work.  We look forward to further positive discussions with Inverclyde Council as we look to progress these proposals towards construction.”