The area is within easy reach of Greenock town centre and has a long been a popular; with a strong community. Indeed the local steering group has been pivotal in driving the regeneration works to transform the look and sustainability of the homes there. The works have started already on the 84 homes, with secure door entry systems being installed. The main investment works is now well underway with scaffolds erected, new roofs being put on and the closes being painted.

When the scaffolding comes down the changes will be clear for all to see. The works will include the installation of external wall insulation and new roughcast to the buildings as well as the fitting of new down pipes and guttering. This will improve the physical appearance of the buildings and their thermal efficiency.

Local residents are already noticing the difference.

Tommy Bowie said: “My building has already been externally insulated and I’ve noticed the difference. My home is warmer and that alone has been worth the minor disruption and noise.”

Sadie Martin shared those views, saying: “I’m impressed by what I’ve seen so far and the close painting has made the entrance areas more welcoming.”

Homeowner John Irving is benefitting from having the improvement works carried out with assistance from Scottish Government grants.

He said: “I’m happy with the look of my building and am looking forward to reduced energy bills in the future.”

A communal TV system is included in the programme and drainage systems are being replaced or upgraded.

After the works are completed a major programme to improve the local environment will start. This is being developed with landscape architects working with the John Street community to redesign and improve the back courts and front garden areas.

A neighbourhood blueprint is being developed in conjunction with customers to make further improvements to the area. Interest in the revitalised area is already keen, with a number of properties let recently on the basis of the refurbishment of the homes.

Stuart Johnstone, neighbourhood planning & development manager at River Clyde Homes, said: “The works in the John Street area are a significant investment and once the scaffolding comes down, the difference will be clear for everyone to see. But more than that, we intend to put a number of initiatives in place that will help the community develop and grow in the coming years.”