A housing developer has gifted land in Inverkip to Inverclyde Council in a 'groundbreaking' deal.

Housebuilder Stewart Milne transferred ownership of 180 acres of land around the Everton Scout Camp to the Council for recreational use by local people and visitors to the area.

Voluntary groups will be encouraged to make good use of the land for activities such as walking, bird watching and environmental education, particularly as a condition of the transfer is that it must only be used for informal recreation.

Councillor David Wilson, Chair of the Council’s Green Charter Working Group and Chair of the Planning Board welcomed the transfer: "I am delighted that such a substantial area of land has been preserved for the community's enjoyment.

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"We all know how attractive computer games and other gadgets are to young people. However, I am encouraged to learn that local membership of the Scouts has increased by more than 50% in the last three years. By taking ownership of this ground, the Council hopes that everyone will be inspired to enjoy the great outdoors, especially members of youth organisations."

Stewart Milne sees the land transfer to the Council as positive for everyone. Alex Goodfellow, Managing Director of Stewart Milne Homes Central Scotland, said: "The gifting of this land to the Council ensures that both the Scouts and Beavers and the local community can enjoy utilising such a substantial area of ground for a variety of recreational pursuits."

To mark the occasion, Inverkip Primary School’s Eco Group, together with local Scouts and Beavers, took part in an environmental activity to demonstrate how they can enjoy - and learn from - spending time outdoors.

Councillor Wilson concluded: "A Key Action of the Council’s Green Charter is the improvement and protection of the environment for the use of the community and I hope that people will exploit the opportunities this land transfer deal presents."

(GK/BMcC)